Yewande Akinse is a Poet and Author of three collections of poetry, titled, The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms (2025), A Tale of Being, of Green and of Ing (2019), and Voices: A Collection of Poems That Tell Stories (2016).
1. If you could travel anywhere in the world to do your work, where would you go?
I would love to travel to a quiet, magical forest in Japan or a serene beach in the Maldives. Nature inspires me so much, and I think being surrounded by such beauty would make my poetry even more vivid and alive.
2. Out of all your projects, what was the hardest piece to create?
The hardest project to create was my newest poetry collection titled The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms. It took me three years to write 102 rhyming poems, and it took my friend and illustrator, Mema Daisy, one full year to do 100 illustrations. The body of work is a labour of love and I hope children enjoy reading the book that kept us awake at night.
3. If you could pick a single fruit to create a story/artwork/picture around, what would it be?
I would pick a banana! It’s sweet, vibrant, and full of character. I imagine a story about a banana that dreams of becoming the most delicious fruit in the world but learns that being unique is even better. I chose the banana because it is my daughter's favourite fruit.
4. What did you like to write and read as a kid?
As a kid, I loved writing short poems and silly rhymes. I also enjoyed reading fairy tales, adventure stories, and books filled with magical creatures.
5. What’s your favorite genre to write?
Poetry, of course! I love how poetry allows me to play with words, rhythms, and emotions.
6. Who is your favorite author?
I have so many favorites, but one of them is Buchi Emecheta. Her works celebrate womanhood in all of its colour, beauty and pain.
7. What is your schedule like when you’re writing a book?
When I’m writing a book, I try to write every day, even if it’s just a little. I usually write in the mornings when my mind is fresh and full of ideas.
8. Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?
Yes, I sometimes play soft instrumental music while I write. It helps me focus and sets the mood for my poetry.
9. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
The best advice I’ve received is to write from the heart and not worry about perfection. The first draft doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to exist.
10. What are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for?
A hero you can root for is kind, brave, and willing to learn from their mistakes. They don’t have to be perfect, but they should have a good heart.
11. Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?
Here’s a fun fact: I love to sleep! When I’m not writing, mothering or working, you will most likely find me on my bed. I live a simple life and appreciate the simple things of life.
12. If you had to describe yourself in just three words, what would those be?
Creative, curious, and kind.
Thank you, Yewande, for the peek inside your life as a poet! Our readers will no doubt benefit from your wonderful advice. Please follow Yewande on social media and check out her poetry collection, The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms, in our Bookshop! Keep shining!
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