Madari Pendas

What was your favorite book as a child?

What was your favorite book as a child? My favorite book when I was a kid was Hatchet. It was a fascinating novel about a boy who must survive by himself after a plane crash. As the child of Caribbean immigrants, I think the theme of surviving at all costs resonated deeply with me. 

What was the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?

What was the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively? I have had a diary since fourth grade. I always needed to express myself in writing, as though it were a healing ritual. Even now, in my thirties I still turn to my journals to work out my feelings and thoughts (when they feel convoluted or confusing).

What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?

What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced? I think moving out of my parents’ house and living on my own was the best experience. I finally understood true freedom and power. I had the power to decide who could and could not enter my home, how I wanted things arranged, what level of mess I was comfortable with. It was invigorating getting to have so much choice. 

Do you listen to music while reading or writing?

Do you listen to music while reading or writing? Why/why not? I sometimes listen to lofi hip hop or synthwave while writing. I have found if I listen to songs that have words, however, I get distracted and tend to lose my rhythm. I've noticed as I've gotten older it’s easier for me to get overstimulated, so I am trying to not multitask. But there is something lovely about gentle marimba music coaching you through a poem or essay.