The Power of Poetry
Photo courtesy of Denice Frohman
Denice Frohman is a poet, performer, and educator whose art explores the intersections of Latinx and queer identities. Denice’s work is shaped by her experiences and upbringing in Harlem, New York – a place filled with culture and memories. She is a recipient of a National Association of Latino Arts & Cultures grant and a former Women of the World Poetry Slam Competition.
LTA: What led you to writing poetry?
I could answer this question in a number of ways because the answer has changed (or rather, become more layered) in the last few years. It took me a long time to realize that it was less about what got me into poetry and more about what kept me from it. I think when I was able to discover poetry on my own terms a whole new world opened up. When I went to the Nuyorican Poets Café in my late teens and started reading poetry that spoke my language, it liberated an inner desire to express myself and explore my worlds.
LTA: What has your personal journey with your LGBTQ+ identity been like? What struggles have you overcome?
“Coming out” isn’t a singular process - its a plural one. I didn’t have language for what I was feeling when I was younger. I needed time to walk it out and explore without the added pressures of feeling like I had to “land” somewhere. I was closeted all of college and it’s something I still regret. I’ve faced harassment and threats due to being openly queer but, as I have gotten more comfortable in my identity, I was able to find better ways to stay in my power. It also goes without saying that having a strong support system of chosen family really helped me throughout my process.
LTA: How have your combined identities as a Latina and queer woman affected you as a person and as a writer?
I think like with most marginalized identities, I spent a lot of time questioning whether I was doing it all wrong. I didn’t feel like I fully belonged anywhere: not being “Latina” enough and then running into another set of narrow prescriptions around my gender expression and sexuality. As a writer, it’s still something I’m thinking through and unpacking. But bringing all of myself to the page and stage is important to me.
LTA: How have you used poetry to come to terms with your own identities or to empower others?
The first time I came out was in a poem on stage at The Nuyorican Poets Café. Therefore, poetry has literally given me the strength and courage I most likely would not have had.
LTA: Do you have any advice for young, queer people of color who are looking to find spaces that bridge their identities? What was the first space you encountered like that, and how did it affect you?
Find your people. Find your community. And if you can’t find it? Build it. Look to your left or right. See who is there. Chances are they are waiting to meet someone like you.
LTA: What advice do you have for aspiring LGBTQ+ writers?
Take your time. Trust your process. You matter.
Written by Adelaide Graham
Edited by Denice Frohman
March 2019