Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Ragsdale

Hi Jenna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Hello! I am a published poet from Reading, Pennsylvania who has always been captivated by stories. My love for poetry took root at a young age when I discovered the beauty of finding meaning in seemingly small moments that are often overlooked in stories. I derive immense joy from the diverse interpretations, symbols, and ideas that different lines of poetry can evoke in people.

After sharing my stories and poems in middle school with teachers and classmates, and receiving praise for my work, I made the decision to continue honing my craft throughout high school. While some may view poetry as a hobby, I recognized it as my true passion and the only subject I could envision pursuing. Therefore, I chose to major in Professional Writing, with a minor in Literature, and make poetry my concentration.

I am grateful that I followed my heart and soul by immersing myself in the study of poetry, as it has enabled me to chase my dreams of becoming a published poet. Recently, I celebrated the publication of my second poetry book, ’24 Autumns of Anthony.’

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Any artist, whether a musician, sculptor, or poet, will attest that putting your work out there and being prepared for various forms of criticism can be daunting. To succeed in the writing world, one must navigate the delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, as rejection is a common experience. It requires unwavering determination to persevere, knowing that eventually, your work will resonate with someone who connects deeply with it, making all the struggles and doubts worthwhile.

Discovering your artistic niche is an active pursuit rather than a passive waiting game. Realism plays a crucial role in this journey, as success demands dedicated time and effort, often necessitating a stable career outside of one’s artistic pursuits to navigate the competitive landscape of writing. Believing in oneself and maintaining resilience are essential principles to uphold amidst the challenges and uncertainties of the creative path.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I work in the mental health field, which I find incredibly rewarding, while my poetry serves as more of a side pursuit. I regularly publish my poetry on my Instagram account @jennaragsdalepoetry. My proudest achievements lie in my twin block poetry books: ’23 Summers of Sarra’ and ’24 Autumns of Anthony,’ both available on Amazon.com. For updates on my future work, you can visit my website at www.jennaragsdale.com.

In my poetry, I specialize in free verse and micro poetry, which allow me to encapsulate and honor small, intimate moments of life with few words. Recognizing the busy nature of our fast-paced world, I strive to craft concise and lucid poems that provide readers with a sense of being seen, felt, and heard. I aim to offer clarity in my work, inviting readers to discover their own meanings and interpretations within my poems, fostering a personal connection that resonates uniquely with each individual.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?

I have been fortunate to maintain a connection with one of my English teachers, who graciously edited my books. My advice for seeking mentors or building a network is to nurture genuine connections with individuals within your field. Express gratitude for their support in both your personal and artistic endeavors, and reciprocate by offering guidance and feedback to others in your community.

Remaining authentic and open to new opportunities is key to finding mentors and expanding your network. Taking the initiative to engage with fellow writers and poets on platforms like Instagram has been a valuable source of support for me. Sharing my work, engaging with others’ creations, and expressing how their work has impacted me has led to meaningful relationships within the writing community.

Initiating conversations with others in your field for insights, advice, or feedback is a proactive step in building mutually beneficial relationships. Remember, we all start somewhere, and the exchange of knowledge and support can lead to growth and inspiration for all involved.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jennaragsdale.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennaragsdalepoetry/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JennaRagsdalePoetry

Image Credits

Kelsey Hartell Photo