Rising Stars: Meet A. Griffin of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to A. Griffin.

Hi A., so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have been writing since I was young but began dedicating my time to poetry in 2019, while I was in college studying to be a teacher. I built a small community on Instagram, finding collaborators and dedicated readers.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t. The algorithm changes to Instagram made it increasingly difficult to keep up engagement and allow new readers to discover my work. I published my first chapbook in Dec 2023, and my publisher was very difficult to work with.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a poet but also an art teacher. I have dedicated my life to art in more ways than one. I’m known for writing honestly about grief and the way it weaves itself into every facet of our lives. I’m most proud of the fact that my book has reached multiple countries around the world, and the fact that I’ve been able to collaborate with amazing writers. I think what sets me apart is my writing style. I didn’t have any formal writing education, no MFAs or anything. It was all learned from studying writers I admired.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My readers on Instagram! They are so supportive of me, and many have become my friends. My collaborators- Steve, Liv, Joey, Liam, Vanessa, Karl have all been instrumental to my success. Steve in particular helped to create a beautiful project with me called “Letters” where we created a storyline in real time, no discussion between us about how it would go, just honest writing back and forth. Also, every single one of my English teachers from elementary school to college encouraged my writing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://open.substack.com/pub/grifffm
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/written_by_ag?stkn=MWJuZG1mcWJscTMzcQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://a.co/d/08KSZoAk