Poet Interview Series: Cendrine Marrouat
Today we would like to introduce you to the talented poet Cendrine Marrouat (pronunciation: “san-drEEn mar-wah”). Originally from Toulouse, France, she has called Winnipeg, Canada, her home for 16 years. Cendrine is not only a poet and accomplished author, she is also a gifted photographer, who specializes in nature, black-and-white and closeup images. Her photography seeks the mundane to capture the fleeting, but true beauty of life in its many forms.
Cendrine is passionate about haiku. She has studied the Japanese poetry form extensively and written many pieces since 2006. In 2015, Cendrine was recognized a Top 100 Business Blogger by BuzzHUMM. Social Media Slant also made Fit Small Business' Best Small Business Blogs of 2015 & 2016 lists.
He latest book “Walks”: A Collection of Haiku (Volume 1) is Cendrine’s 12th book. Other releases include five collections of poetry, three photography books, a play, two social media ebooks, and a spoken word CD.
Read the full interview with Cendrine below:
Where do you live and how does it influence your writing?
I live in Winnipeg, Canada, but I was born and raised in France. My experience as an immigrant and a woman has taught me to be observant of the things around me. And the world around me is really what influences my writing.
What inspires you to write?
Life.
When did you first start writing and what was it about?
I have always written. My early pieces do not count, though, because they date back to my teenage years. I really did not know what I was doing at the time. lol
My real and serious beginnings were in 2005. I started writing poetry all of a sudden. The topic was something that I needed to get out of my system. After that, I was hooked.
What is your favorite genre and why?
The one I focus on -- poetry. Theatre is a close second.
Poetry and theatre allow you to tackle uncomfortable topics in a way that does not scare people away. The imagery you use to create awareness is not as blunt as other art forms. People are free to interpret things on their own terms.
Do you support yourself through writing financially, or do you have a day job and what is it?
Most poets will tell you the same thing as me: Poetry is not a sellable form of art. It is almost impossible to make a living from it.
So, it is mandatory to have a day job. I teach French to adults and occasionally help entrepreneurs figure out the basics of social media strategy.
How many hours a day do you spend writing and what helps you to get into the writing mood?
I write every day, even if it is only 15 minutes. It is a routine, so I usually don't need anything to get in the mood.
And what’s the best moment you’ve had in your writing career so far?
I celebrate every victory equally. It does not matter how big or small it is. Even this feature on your blog is an achievement to me. :-)
Tell us about your book. How long did it take to write? What inspired you to write it?
Walks: A Collection of Haiku (Volume 1), my 12th book, took me a couple of weeks to write. I love haiku and wanted to celebrate this wonderful form of poetry. I have been writing haiku for more than a decade now.
The book is also an invitation to enjoy the little things that surround us. Whether it is nature or a memory we cherish, we should always take the time to immerse ourselves in positive emotions.
What are you working on next?
Books 13-15 are almost ready for release. I am also working on a couple of projects with great people. It is just a little too early to reveal what they are...
Where would you like to see yourself in three years time.
Honestly, I love my life. I would not change a thing. So, I see myself in the same spot as I am now -- still learning, enjoying life, writing, and taking photos. I wouldn't mind traveling a little more, though!
Can you give any advice for an aspiring writing?
Be you. Don't compare yourself to others. Don't take negative reviews or comments personally. Don't worry about what others think about you.
Practice, practice, practice. Master the rules before breaking them. And stop relying on family members and friends for support. They are (almost) never your ideal audience.
You can find her book on Amazon: https://getbook.at/walks-amazon
Haiku are unrhymed poems consisting of about 17 syllables spread over three lines. This poetry form started in Japan and has been very popular in many countries around the world for decades.
To view the full collection of Cendrine’s books visit her website: https://www.cendrinemedia.com/Books
You can also find out more about Cendrine on her social media channels. See the links below:
Media inquiries: Jerry Doby - jerrydoby@thehypemagazine.com
Other inquiries: cendrine@cendrinemedia.com