Sep 29

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Alexis Romo is a friend that I met through the writing community on Instagram as I started writing and sharing poems and stories there. Her writing is so relatable and sometimes dreamy but another main factor we talk is that we are both working on having the habit of working out. I invited her for an interview to know more about her writing journey and how she balances everything all at once.

1. Tell us about your writing journey.

It always sounds so cliché to say that I have always found peace and comfort in writing but it rings true for me. I was always such a quiet and shy kid, so writing is where I got to freely express myself. Writing is how I learned to use my voice.

But I have been writing since I was in elementary school. I always enjoyed English classes, especially when we got to do some creative writing. I started taking writing more seriously in high school when I saw that other people posting their work on social media. I made my Instagram account (originally under a pen name), started submitting here and there to anthologies and literary magazines and eventually started self-publishing my collections.

2. How is your current progress on your manuscript?

I have finished reading through the first draft and jotting down my initial thoughts and edits. Now, I am working on editing and arranging the poems, so I can send the manuscript to a few beta readers for their review.

3. What is your favourite part when you write your book?

Aside from the actual writing, I love the brainstorming and creative thinking sessions! I love being able to develop my ideas and it makes me excited to see the final product at the end.

4. Which part do you procrastinate the most? How do you get over it and finish it?

I procrastinate on everything! With daily responsibilities and simply because my mind is always racing a million miles an hour, it is hard for me to really buckle down and get work done. But I take everything day by day. I have a jam-packed schedule right now, so I am trying to set aside dedicated time to work on my writing projects. For now, I have been dedicating my mornings and breaks from homework to my writing.

5. If you don’t mind, can you tell us a little bit about what the poetry collection is about? A tease would be great.

This poetry collection is all about my relationship with God, Christianity and spirituality. It explores my thoughts and experiences on my spiritual journey. I will say though that if you are a devouted Christian, you might not like this book!

6. What is your favourite book on writing? Or is there a fiction book that inspires you with storytelling or character building?

I don't think I could pick one book or author that inspires me. Many authors and poets inspire me to write and explore different genres and styles. The one thing that continues to serve as a point of inspiration is this quote I read a long time ago: "Write the story you wish to read." I don't remember where I read that or who originally said it but I always keep it in mind.

7. How are you handling everything, as a writer who has a day job?

It is hard, especially now because I have two jobs and I am taking two classes. So, it is definitely a lot for me right now! But I do write everyday. I normally do my morning pages (which are three full loose-leaf handwritten pages) and jot down some ideas in my phone notes when I take breaks.

8. Where can people find you and your work?

I'm on Instagram and TikTok @AlexisMRomo and there's also my website www.AlexisMRomo.com