Overheard @ The Open Mic #18
“Who's Judas are you?" -Salillian
Welp, I did it! I slowed down. But only for the first half of the month. Either way, it felt nice stepping back into a more support-based role. I am so happy to see friends and community members thriving with spotlights and features. I continue to be inspired by lv_latrail (IG) as she pushes boundaries with each and every feature set. There is writing & there is performance; then there is craft. She does an immaculate job combining all three to create an immersive experience. Do yourself a favor and give her a follow.
In performing less, there’s also been a few instances of walking into creative spaces and selling a book off presence alone. That has felt extremely validating. I personally want to thank each and every person who has purchased a copy of my book- Golden Teachers in the Hood- with a special shoutout to my mom (Arnetta) and my best friend (Wes Mann). I’m currently cooking up the next leg of my book tour- Chicago & Detroit, stay tuned. Also lmk if you have any creative recs or connections for those two cities. This summer will bring travel and more widespread exposure. Ase.
Sam Crowley’s sketches from If All The Tree’s Were Pens 5.15.26
For all newcomers, this monthly segment features some of the top lines overheard in DMV creative spaces. I can’t credit each quote to its author, but I can say none of them are my intellectual property. Maybe a line takes a longstanding sentiment and makes it plain. Maybe a line strikes a chord and inspires your next ballad. Maybe a line releases you from metaphor into a period of free writes. I simply ask that if a specific quote resonates, you leave a comment.
Here are May 2026’s Top 10 Overheard @ The Open Mic:
~ “There was no malice in the room, only arithmetic.”
~ “My first form of regulation was isolation.” -Zoe
~ “It’s obvious but you’re oblivious.” -Kylie
~ “My appetite for love is obese.” -Priestess Prophecy
~ “I am a dream and a nightmare depending on if you are seeking truth or not.” -Catina
~ “It’s easier to find weed than it is to find peace.”
~ “Ghosts don’t need your belief, they need your silence.” -Nate Lovell
~ “Don’t waste your opportunity waiting for an opportunity.” -BlackRoot
~ “How horribly thick a thin love can be.” -Anita
~ “So many poets are stuck on the metaphors that they miss out on the metamorphosis.” -Kenneth Something
Which line resonated with you the most?
Golden Teachers in the Hood is out now! Drop a message to order your signed copy or order from online here.
Photo by Tommy La Voy
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