maryam's love notes

Discovering The "Aziza":

But I Remain a Black Woman...

Bantu Knots & Butterflies: A Written Reflection

In November of 2018, I opened up a Google Document on my phone and began to fill it with poetry. I wrote deeply about the things I felt most passionate about. I wrote about being Black. I wrote about being a woman. I wrote about my struggles with spirituality, religion, and the connection with my ancestors that I’ve so deeply longed for. I knew that it was the beginning of something worthwhile. Now in 2021, I’m pleased to officially announce my first poetry book entitled, “Bantu Knots & Butterflies: A Written Reflection.” Bantu knots are a traditional African hairstyle—they are representative of my truth as a negress and what I hold deep in my heart. Butterflies are my journey—as many of you may know, a butterfly lives in a cocoon until it is ready to spread its wings and fly. Consider this book my first flight...

I’d like to thank my friend David Jones for writing such a lovely foreword. I’d also like to thank my friend Taylar Enlow for inspiring my passion to create and for being a wonderful mentor and big sister.

Aje (Witch)