We recently connected with Violette Meier and have shared our conversation below.
Violette, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you share a story about the kindest thing someone has done for you and why it mattered so much or was so meaningful to you?
Like most writers, when I started writing books I wanted to be signed by a major publisher. I sent out letters and synopses to literary agents only to be rejected over and over again because they had no idea how to market a black female science fantasy writer. These were the days before “Black Panther” showed the world that black folks had an imagination. Over time, I began to count small wins because I progressed from generic rejection letters to personalized letters telling me that my writing was good but they didn’t see a market for it. After a time, I sought out small presses and got signed to one. I sold a few books but made no money. Eventually, I regained my publishing rights, but I had a book that no one knew existed. I was so discouraged. One Christmas, my husband presented me with an envelope. Inside was a letter of incorporation for Viori Publishing, LLC. He told me that I was the best writer he had ever read and he felt that I knew enough about the publishing business to publish my books myself. That was the kindest thing that anyone had ever done for me.
Nothing compares to the feeling of someone believing in my dreams as much as I do.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am a happily married mother, writer, folk artist, poet, and native of Atlanta, Georgia, who earned my B.A. in English at Clark Atlanta University and an MDiv at the Interdenominational Theological Center. I am also a certified herbalist, a chaplain, and an educator.
Writing since my pre-teen years, I am the great-granddaughter of a dream interpreter who sparked my interest in the supernatural. Sitting at her feet as she wove the most amazing tales set my imagination aflame. I write paranormal, urban fantasy, fantasy, and horror fiction among other genres including inspiration, poetry, and children’s books. I am always working on something new. Currently, I am working on another short story collection due this fall.
My books are rich in folklore, myths, and legends with a diversity of characters.
Visit my website (VioletteMeier.com) often to keep up with my new releases and events.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is sharing with the world something that was uniquely brought to fruition by me. There is something powerful about individual thought and the will to make it tangible. No two humans are exactly alike, so every perspective is an important contribution to the world, and sharing mine is a pleasure and a privilege.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Society can share content about their favorite artist. Let people know about who you love. It does not always take money to support. Share your favorite book, put your favorite artist’s artwork on your t-shirt, and blast the music of indie artists.
Do not value AI over original writing and artwork. AI should be used to accompany or enhance original art but never to replace writers and artists.
Support grants and initiatives that fund creatives so that they can spend more time pouring into their art, purchase affordable healthcare insurance, and live off their artwork.
Contact Info:
- Website: VioletteMeier.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/violettel.meier
- Facebook: facebook.com/violettel.meier
- Twitter: twitter.com/violettemeier
- Other: tiktok.com/@violettel.meier