Expressions of a Man: Interview with Theodore R. Goyins, III
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
When I see my peers pursuing their passion, it continues to fuel me on my creative journey. We often hear about the success stories, but don’t fully understand the twist and turns along the way. I met Theodore R. Goyins, III on the campus of Florida A&M University in the Fall of 2001. Even back then he had a way with words. Theodore was outgoing, charismatic with a magnetic personality. You could tell people genuinely enjoyed being in his company.
I became familiar with Theodore’s writings on his blog, Thoughts of TRG 3. I always found the free verse poems to be personal, introspective and inspirational. “Thoughts of TRG 3” was the start of a journey -the spark of a passion. I took a moment to sit down with Theodore to gain insight into his first collection of poems, Expressions of a Man, and understand his path to publication. I always knew Theodore was destined for greatness; I’m just glad I could be apart. Book artwork styled and creative directed by yours truly, lensed by, Elton Anderson.
Inspiration lies below. Don’t be afraid to read, comment and share.
Expressions of a Man can be purchased here -> http://bookstore.authorhouse.com , http://www.amazon.com and http://www.barnesandnoble.com.
Could you give us any insights into the story behind Expression of a Man?
Expressions of a Man was a cathartic piece of art for me. From childhood to present day I have dealt with health and life challenges that have had me close to death. I desperately needed to find an outlet to let out my inner struggles and emotions. Writing became my release. Over the years I would write my thoughts down, both positive and negative. It was bottled emotions that caused my ailments to grow exponentially. I would never tell friends or anyone about my writing because I considered it emasculating. After getting over my fears of letting out the inner most parts of me, I decided to share it with others. Expressions of a Man is a collection of one man’s challenges and the rewards that came along with overcoming the same.
What do you hope readers will take away from reading your collection of poetry?
I pray that readers see themselves in these writings. So much that when they read they will start to allow expression to come naturally. This anthology is both for men and women. For men it shows that expressing yourself is not only isolated to one gender and that it will truly help them in every aspect of their life, if they found a way to express what they truly feel. As it relates to women, I am aware that many women have buried the heartbreaking memories and emotions of abuse. This book will help women start the healing process allowing themselves to overcome those terrible memories and express their pain. I pray that women read this book and become even more clear to how men may express themselves as well. Also so that they understand that a man’s way of expression may be different but the emotions behind it may be the same. Women are powerful and they can create a comfortable environment for men to express themselves openly. This anthology seeks to help expression come naturally for both men and women.
Writing such a personal book can be emotionally taxing, what were some of the biggest challenges and rewards?
There were definitely a couple of challenges but with those challenges came great reward. Once I got past the thoughts of sharing vulnerable parts of me and whether or not people would like my writings, I was ecstatic about sharing my thoughts with the world. The greatest reward is knowing that this book may possibly save a life. That is the main motivation behind this book, to save lives.
A lot of writers – at various career points – struggle with rejection, unsupportive friends or family members, mixed reviews, and their own insecurities. Has your journey been devoid of these experiences?
My family and friends have definitely been a great support for me. Even when I thought it was a far fetched idea for me to write a book, they were the ones that pushed me to complete it. I am blessed to have such a loving family and strong support system. I have been honored to have positive reviews on my book so far. My journey has definitely not been devoid of insecurity. As artist we are confident in what we do but realize that there is the fact that not everyone will take to your art as you do. The fact that one person out of millions may not appreciate your art can make for an insecure artist. We want everyone to love our work but I know that is not realistic. I do know that one person will be saved or motivated by my art and that is gratifying.
Could you tell us a bit about your path to publication?
I started out with just a blog and posted writings there for quite some time. In the beginning I did this to get through some hard times. After many people started to enjoy my writings and convinced me to compile my writings in a book that is when Expressions of a Man was birthed. I knew I wanted to self publish my first piece. I have great plans and ideas for my writing. I wanted readers to just enjoy my work and become known in the literary world. I look forward to doing more books and other forms of writing.
What about the writing life first called to you? Were you quick to answer or did time pass by?
Time definitely passed, actually years. I thought it wasn’t a manly thing to do, to write. Write, not a macho former football player. I wasn’t supposed to be a writer; I was supposed to be something totally different. But this is my calling. Looking in the face of death will really push you to find your purpose. I truly believe I have found mine.
Can we expect a follow up to Expression of a Man?
Definitely! My second book will be coming out soon. I just want readers to really absorb this book Expressions of a Man. Look for a play before the next book. God willing!
What would you like to say to people who are reading this interview and wondering if they can keep creating, if they are good enough, if their voices and visions matter enough to share?
When you find your passion, that is when life begins. Never stop creating, never stop believing! Your art is needed in this world and there is someone out there in this vast world that is depressed and is stuck in darkness. You and your art may be the light that saves their life. That is the purpose of your art.
Ultimately, what will be your legacy?
I am aware that my art will be more appreciated when I am no longer on this Earth and I am fine with that. I want to leave a legacy of determination and commitment. When I am no longer here I want the world to know that there was once a man who had challenges and obstacles just like them but life continued. I want my kids to remember Daddy as one who stood for integrity. My legacy lies in all 194 pages of Expressions of a Man because my life in fact lies on every page and finding this passion is where my life began.
Follow Theodore on Twitter – @TRG_3. He will also be having a book signing on November 12, 2011 at HueMan Bookstoore (2319 Frederick Douglass Blvd. (Between 124th and 125th Streets). New York, NY 10027) from 4pm to 6pm.
34 Comments
Love this interview. Nice!
Very Nice article gentlemen!
Beaming with Rattler pride!
[...] Check out Theodore’s interview with Fashion Stylist and Creatie Director Apuje Kalu. Apuje Kalu was responsible for all Theodore’s styling and creative direction for the book cover photo shoot. Make sure you check out www.apujekalu.com for all of his work. Enjoy the interview: http://apujekalu.com/blog/expressions-of-a-man/ [...]
Enjoyed the article. Inspiring indeed! Keep pushing!
A fellow blogger here, found your site via e107, and I have
a piece of advice: write more. Literally, it appears as though you relied on the video to drive your point home.
You clearly grasp what you’re dealing with, so why waste your brainpower just posting videos to your blog when you could be giving us something insightful to read?
Hi there I am so thrilled I found your website, I really found you by error, while I was researching on Aol for something else, Anyhow I am here now and would just like to say cheers for a marvelous post and a all round enjoyable blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read it all at the minute but I have saved it and also added in your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read a lot more, Please do keep up the excellent work.
Hi! I know this is kinda off topic however I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest authoring a blog post or vice-versa? My site covers a lot of the same topics as yours and I feel we could greatly benefit from each other. If you happen to be interested feel free to send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you! Wonderful blog by the way!
With havin so much content do you ever run into any issues of plagorism or copyright infringement? My website has a lot of unique content I’ve either created myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my authorization. Do you know any ways to help stop content from being stolen? I’d genuinely appreciate it.
Have you ever considered about adding a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is fundamental and all. However imagine if you added some great graphics or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and video clips, this website could undeniably be one of the very best in its field. Amazing blog!
whoah this blog is magnificent i love reading your articles. Keep up the great work! You know, lots of people are searching around for this information, you could help them greatly.
Thanks for revealing your ideas. I’d also like to convey that video games have been actually evolving. Modern technology and revolutions have served create realistic and active games. These kind of entertainment video games were not as sensible when the actual concept was first of all being attempted. Just like other styles of technologies, video games too have had to progress as a result of many many years. This itself is testimony towards fast growth and development of video games.
Hi there, You’ve done an incredible job. I’ll definitely digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I’m sure they will be benefited from this web site.
Thank you for your whole labor on this website. My mum take interest in setting aside time for investigation and it’s simple to grasp why. All of us know all relating to the lively form you present practical techniques by means of this web blog and increase participation from some other people on the theme and our favorite daughter is in fact being taught so much. Enjoy the rest of the year. You’re performing a tremendous job.
I’ve learned result-oriented things by your website. One other thing I’d prefer to say is that often newer laptop or computer operating systems are inclined to allow far more memory for use, but they likewise demand more memory simply to work. If an individual’s computer cannot handle extra memory and the newest software requires that memory increase, it can be the time to buy a new Laptop. Thanks
An outstanding share! I have just forwarded this onto a colleague who had been conducting a little homework on this. And he in fact bought me breakfast because I stumbled upon it for him… lol. So allow me to reword this…. Thanks for the meal!! But yeah, thanx for spending some time to discuss this matter here on your blog.
I want to show some thanks to you just for bailing me out of this type of dilemma. Right after looking out throughout the world wide web and seeing tricks that were not beneficial, I believed my life was well over. Living without the presence of answers to the difficulties you have sorted out through the article content is a crucial case, as well as the kind that would have badly damaged my entire career if I hadn’t come across the website. Your good ability and kindness in taking care of all the details was important. I am not sure what I would have done if I hadn’t come upon such a subject like this. I can also at this time look forward to my future. Thanks so much for this high quality and result oriented guide. I won’t hesitate to recommend your web blog to any person who should have guidelines on this subject.
Hello there! I know this is kinda off topic nevertheless I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest writing a blog post or vice-versa? My blog addresses a lot of the same subjects as yours and I believe we could greatly benefit from each other. If you might be interested feel free to send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you! Great blog by the way!
Howdy just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the pictures aren’t loading correctly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue. I’ve tried it in two different internet browsers and both show the same outcome.|
Hello my friend! I want to say that this article is awesome, great written and include approximately all vital infos. I would like to peer more posts like this .
Aw, this was a really nice post. In concept I would like to put in writing like this moreover – taking time and precise effort to make an excellent article… but what can I say… I procrastinate alot and not at all appear to get something done.
I would like to consider the opportunity of thanking you for the professional suggestions I have always enjoyed visiting your site. We are looking forward to the actual commencement of my college research and the general prep would never have been complete without dropping by your site. If I may be of any assistance to others, I might be delighted to help by means of what I have discovered from here.
Yet another thing to mention is that an online business administration training course is designed for individuals to be able to well proceed to bachelors degree education. The 90 credit diploma meets the other bachelor education requirements then when you earn your own associate of arts in BA online, you’ll have access to the most up-to-date technologies with this field. Some reasons why students have to get their associate degree in business is because they may be interested in the field and want to get the general training necessary in advance of jumping to a bachelor college diploma program. Many thanks for the tips you actually provide in your blog.
Thanks for the suggestions you have provided here. Additionally, I believe there are a few factors that keep your automobile insurance premium straight down. One is, to take into consideration buying motors that are inside the good listing of car insurance providers. Cars that are expensive are more at risk of being stolen. Aside from that insurance is also in accordance with the value of the car, so the more costly it is, then higher your premium you pay.
I have observed that in digital camera models, special sensors help to target automatically. The particular sensors with some video cameras change in in the area of contrast, while others use a beam with infra-red (IR) light, specifically in low lumination. Higher specification cameras at times use a mix of both methods and likely have Face Priority AF where the video camera can ‘See’ your face and focus only in that. Thank you for sharing your notions on this weblog.
Hey would you mind letting me know which web host you’re working with? I’ve loaded your blog in 3 completely different internet browsers and I must say this blog loads a lot quicker then most. Can you recommend a good internet hosting provider at a reasonable price? Thanks, I appreciate it!
Virtually all of whatever you assert is supprisingly precise and it makes me wonder why I hadn’t looked at this with this light before. This article really did switch the light on for me personally as far as this particular topic goes. Nonetheless there is actually 1 issue I am not necessarily too cozy with and while I attempt to reconcile that with the actual central theme of your position, allow me observe exactly what the rest of your subscribers have to point out.Nicely done.
What the scale is not telling you is that you are losing a great deal of muscle, which is a really bad situation for you if you seek the long-term weight loss that has to do with burning fat and keeping it off
I was suggested this website by my cousin. I’m not sure whether this post is written by him as no one else know such detailed about my trouble. You are wonderful! Thanks!|
I adore gathering utile information, this post has got me even more info!
Hola! I’ve been following your blog for a while now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Kingwood Tx! Just wanted to say keep up the great work!
Thanks a ton for being my personal mentor on this topic. I actually enjoyed your current article a lot and most of all favored the way in which you handled the areas I widely known as controversial. You are always incredibly kind towards readers much like me and help me in my everyday living. Thank you.
I think other site proprietors should take this site as an model, very clean and magnificent user friendly style and design, as well as the content. You’re an expert in this topic!
Once I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now every time a comment is added I get four emails with the identical comment. Is there any approach you possibly can take away me from that service? Thanks!