An Alex man has added the title of author to his name after he published a collection of poems in his recent book, Poems of the Spirit Mind and Soul.
Lwazi Ngozi from East Bank said poetry makes it easy for him to express himself.
“Like many writers, I started writing when I was young but it was nothing serious. Only after completing matric in 2012 did I take the craft seriously,” Ngozi said.
“I was broke and unemployed and the only way to express the emotions I was feeling was through writing poetry.”
Read: Children’s books author dazzles school kids
With no formal training, the self-taught Ngozi said reading also helped with improving his writing.
“When you read often you get to learn how to put your words to paper.”
The self-published author owes his gratitude to The Holy Family Sisters in Auckland Park who helped him find funding to publish the book.
“You know as a young upcoming artist nobody wants to take risks on backing work they are not sure will do well in the market, so they really helped me.”
Poems of the Spirit Mind and Soul consists of 44 poems that Ngozi said most people would relate to.
“All the poems are a reflection of me and how I see life. As youth, most of us see life in the same way. It [the book] will leave you inspired, motivated and full of hope.”
Read: Writing classes from esteemed author
The 23-year-old said he draws his inspiration from people around him.
“My grandmother, for one, always shares all her wisdom with me.”
Ngozi also does motivational talks to youth at schools and plans to open his own non-profit organisation which helps with skills development.
“Many young people have the potential to reach their goals, but don’t believe in themselves. I want to inspire and have a positive impact in their lives.”
Copies of the book are directly available from Ngozi.
Details: Lwazi Ngozi 063 212 1153.
Edited by Stacey Woensdregt
Tell us what you think of the poems on the Alex News Facebook page