Poetry

I Am a Writer: A Refrain for the Unbowed

Posted on by Khaya Ronkainen / 15 Comments

I am a writer
Words are the tools
I gather to tell stories

I am a writer
Words are the weapons
I pick up to fight injustice

I am a writer
Words are the imagination
I wield to make rainbows from storms

I am a writer
Words are the voice
I call out half-truths and lies

I am a writer
Words are the candles
I light to find beauty in the dark

I am a writer
Words are the lanterns
I burn to bring hope in times of despair

I am a writer
Words are the home
I return to every single day

PS. Thank you, Rachael Herron, for reminding me I am, and always have been a writer, and that I can use my words for good. It’s easy to forget we have agency when we’re feeling overwhelmed. Whatever your medium, dear reader, you too can use it to turn storms into rainbows.

PPS. Image is one of my AI creations.

, , , , ,
Khaya Ronkainen
Khaya Ronkainen is a writer, poet and creative professional. Her blog focuses on all things poetry and creative nonfiction.

15 Comments

  2. I like your writing manifesto. These lines spoke to me now: Words are the lanterns
    I burn to bring hope in times of despair. Thanks for the lanterns.

    Reply

  3. The power of words and writing to give transcendence. Keep holding and using your medium of power Khaya!!! Cheers 😃

    Reply

  5. A powerful poem, Khaya. As Laura said above, your words “are lights leading others through a dark path.” Something for me to think about these days when I’m so stuck in the dark. Huge hugs, my friend.

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Diana. You have it all in your hands; your stories, books, art help light up my path. Never forget that! Sending care and hugs, my friend! 🫂

      Reply

  8. Khaya, a powerful poem/song to the gift of our arts, their force of positivity – very timely and a reminder for us all! The more light we send out into the world, the more we can hope it helps to push back the dark. Love these lines:

    ‘Words are the imagination
    I wield to make rainbows from storms’ Yes!!!

    Sending love & hugs xx ❤️

    Reply

Do leave a trace!