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Hi. It has been quite a while since I posted here last. I have been far more active on my Instagram account @thebookcomplex. Take a look if you haven't already!
The more I read and engage with the Bookstagram community, the more I yearn to support local authors. I can often be found supporting Canadian fiction writers and noticed that I have yet to venture into the world of Canadian and GTA-based poets.
I stumbled upon poetry that spoke to me when one of my former high school colleagues started sharing his poetry on his Instagram account.
Meet Indiana Rotondo
Indiana Rotondo is an up-and-coming, GTA-based poet focused on inspiring change and authenticity in today's young adults. His poetry evokes honesty and confidence as he places a high importance on pride in showing emotion. Indiana's authentic voice permeates his writing, putting forth an aura of confidence in feeling and relatability:
"I'm sorry if I go quiet,
Excerpt from "Sorry If I Go Quiet", 2023.
I know it drives you crazy.
I'm sorry for what I've been through.
Still, I'm happy with what it's made me."
Making a Difference
Indy aspires to be an example for young adults and strives to create change within his community. He gives back by voicing his experiences with loss and expressing emotions through spoken, written, and slam poetry. Covering topics such as love, loss, life purpose, and mental health, his words ring true in a world where people feel isolated among the masses.
In a conversation with the poet, he mentioned that he aims to be an example for young adults who may be going through similar experiences stating he wants his readers to be able to say "If Indy can go through this and still be able to do all that he does, then I can, too". At the core of his poetry is ensuring his readers do not feel alone in their experiences, reminding them that he and others are in it with them:
"All in one, you and I we're all related.
Excerpt from "To See Change— Create Change— Be Change", 2023.
I want to make a difference in the world,
Who says it's not I who can change it?
Influence leads a generation
And in God's speed we will create it.
I speak for those silently suffering.
I speak for those living in houses but not homes.
I speak for those silenced in the words they were uttering.
I speak for those who feel alone."
Giving Back to the Community
School visits are on the horizon as he aims to inspire high school students to embrace their skills and talents, encouraging them to pursue their full potential and be proud of the skills they have. Indy also gives back through a basketball team he put together with young adults from all walks of life.
The Ripple Effect
Indy is currently working on a poetry collection called "The Ripple Effect", a title that pays homage to the positive, contagious nature of creating change. There is truth and worth in using your voice and healing through words, and I believe Indy's poetry exemplifies this perfectly.