Writer Toni M. Martin
This week’s Writer Wednesday features DWR member and writer Toni M. Martin of Sterling Heights!
She is currently exploring the art of storytelling through personal essays, short stories and poetry. Her writing focuses on life experiences, relationships, self-discovery and the wisdom we gain along the way. She’s also working on a collection of personal essays reflecting on life's memorable moments and the lessons they leave behind.
Read more about her below!
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
My favorite part is the discovery stage, when a memory or image starts to speak and I'm just listening my way onto the page.
What does your writing workspace look like?
My writing workspace is a white glass-top table and a leather chair in my home office. The surface is usually covered with colorful pens, family photos and stacks of white grid paper. I love it because it feels like possibility waiting for me.
When did you first discover your love for writing? Were there any key moments or influences that sparked your passion?
I first fell in love with writing through school essays. I still remember how thrilled I was to learn to type in high school. A turning point came when I won an award in middle school for a personal essay about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Later, I wrote a column for my college newspaper, which made writing feel like part of my life, not just homework.
What is your favorite non-writing hobby?
I love creating digital art for my home and entering sweepstakes. Funny enough, I often win sweepstakes that require writing a short review. Apparently, even my hobbies find a way to bring me back to writing!
What is your favorite piece of writing advice?
Take time to write. Schedule it, or it won't happen. Writing needs a place on the calendar, not just in your head.
FLASH QUESTIONS:
Favorite book: Too many wonderful books to name just one!
Favorite author: Barack Obama
Favorite book-to-movie adaptation: I can’t think of one, the book is always better!
I can't write without: My favorite pens and bright white paper.
If I could have coffee with any writer (dead or alive), it would be: Beverly Jenkins
Follow Toni on Instagram at @toni.martin424.
— Interview by intern Jayda Groth