Hokis channels zir mistrust in humanity and love for puzzles into unfolding poems. Ze is Senior Editor of “Headline Poetry” @Line Rider Press, and previously served as teacher, community organizer, and body-centered mindfulness coach. Recent works are found in Truly U, Paragon Press’ Snollygoster: A Conversation About Politics, and For Women Who Roar. {Hokis; n. /hō/kēs/ The Armenian word for “my soul”or “my beloved.”}

How does poetry and identifying as lesbian/bi come together for you?

In the cracks of direct truth of prose, is poetry. In the mixed meanings of poetry, is an inability for others to argue with your truth. In these ways, poetry and identity are a crucial link for me. In poetry I found my story, not the story others would grammar and spell check, not the story where the he’s and she’s and they’s were “supposed to fit.” There was a delicious freedom in this pause, this exploration of what love looks like. My contribution to SMITTEN, “Preference Over Judgement,” was THE turning point in my writing, which mirrored my self-acceptance. My hope is this piece brings us back to our humanity, and our natural roots of a creature on Earth.

Do you find any stereotypes in lesbian/bi work that you would personally remove?

I find it challenging to feel authenticated as a bisexual female in a 20 year marriage with a male partner. I chose a pen name that reminds me that my scope of existence is beyond even my own boundaries; Hokis, which is Armenian for “my soul.” This pen name keeps me true to my truth. My hope is this provides others space to offer themselves permission to be true to theirs.

SMITTEN is coming out late October, 2019 via all good book stores. Published by Indie Blu(e) www.indieblu.net 

Please consider supporting this project of over 120+ talented poets and authors by purchasing a copy of SMITTEN for someone who appreciates beautiful poetry. https://www.facebook.com/SMITTENwomen/