Author Yewande Akinse Interview

booktalkwithbookis
Jul 25, 2025
3 min read

Tell us a little bit about your books:

My third collection of poems titled, "The rise and fall of rhymes and rhythms" is a collection of 100 poems which tell the tale of a mother’s love for her child. It is a tribute to life, to genealogy and to legacy. It is a book of instruction, lessons and a leaving behind. A collection of poems with excellent illustrations, written as a dizain and with a definite rhyme scheme and syllable structure.

What three words would you use to describe your writing?

Authentic. Simple. Relatable

From where does your inspiration come?

This collection was inspired by my daughter and a desire to give her something of worth and meaning, something money cannot buy.

I chose to write poems for her, to tell her the story of her birth, the meaning of her name, to introduce her to the great relationships in my life and to give to her the gift of language, stories and knowledge. The poems later progress to more general themes and life lessons which are of value to all young people. I spent three full years writing and rewriting this labor of love.

Do you have a favorite poem that you've written? In which book of yours can we find it?

Till date, I have written and published over 200 poems. However, my favorite is titled, "Leader of Crowns" found in my third poetry collection.

What is something unique about your writing style?

I believe, contrary to popular opinion, that poetry should not be confusing or difficult to understand. My writing style embraces simplicity and musicality in poetry without compromising quality.

What advice do you have for aspiring poets or writers?

I hope that you keep writing. I hope it sets you free.

How do you handle writer's block?

When faced with writer’s block, I step away from writing, listen to music and engage fully in the art of living. The words come back, sometimes after weeks, sometimes after months. I chose these days to exercise patience till the words find me. This is what makes writing a tribute to time, sometimes you must wait until the words find you.

In addition to being a poet and author, you are also a lawyer, entrepreneur, and advocate of climate change. How do you balance your busy schedule and find time to write?

These days, I do not have the luxury of finding time to write, I make out time to write from a long to do list. Writing has now become a deliberate practice where every word counts.

You have received quite the few accolades over your lifetime! Is there one you are particularly proud of?

Indeed, I have been fortunate enough to receive accolades and recognition for my efforts but honestly, I appreciate them all. Winning awards is always a humbling experience for me, and for every award won, I say, thank you.