In this episode, we're taking a poetic trip to the roller rink with Arriel Vinson, a Girls Write Now mentor alum and debut author of Under the Neon Lights. In her discussion with mentee Maryam Oguntola, Arriel explores the connection between Black liberation and roller skating, and how it inspired her novel-in-verse. From talking about Midwestern hometowns to revolutionary protest, first crushes to developing a poetic style, this conversation will make you want to grab your skates and find your own place of communal joy.
If you want the chance to meet Arriel and do some writing in community, come to our Friday Night Salon on June 20th at 6 PM ET! The event is hybrid, so you can join us at the Girls Write Now headquarters in Manhattan or online. You can register at https://girlswritenow.org/event/june20salon/.
Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.
Host: Kathryn Destin
Producers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni Kurra
Editors: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, Vahni Kurra, and Annaya Baynes
Music by Jaya Rao-Herel
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