Prolific Pulse has dug into the archives and in honor of Black History Month is bringing forth many of the iconic Black Women who have visited through workshops, podcasts, celebrations and more! In the time I have gotten to know Zan, she has become a true friend, and I cherish this relationship. And – just like true friends do – we support one another.
Whenever I have asked Zan to help me with something, she gives a “YES” and always has the best ideas to help make everything turn out even better.
Today, I am going deep into the wealth of videos, and this is one of several videos of Zan’s work.
Check out the new addition to Encore! Zaneta Varnado Johns entered her latest poetry collection, “Encore” in the American Writing Awards and received the Finalist Badge!
Finalist: 2024 American Writing Awards
Internationally recognized poet and author Zaneta Varnado Johns is back, fueled by passion, purpose, and steady acclaim. She is spiritually grounded, filled with love, appreciation and awe. In response to the loud applause garnered by her two previous poetry collections, Johns presents Encore: A Collection of Poetry. Featuring ninety-nine select poems, Encore is a gift from the author’s heart. In the book’s Dedication, Johns states, “For every relative, friend, poet, and organizational leader who pushed, prodded, nudged, and encouraged me: this one’s for you. I titled this book to acknowledge your applause. I heard it. I loved it. I responded. This is your encore-from my heart to yours.” Some poems, previously featured globally in anthologies, make an encore appearance in this collection.
Take your seat and prepare to be enchanted by Encore’s stellar performance. Encore begins with romantic musings and essences sparked by the poet’s life and thoughtful interpretations of the lives of others. Poetic threads are woven through lyrics inspired by favored locales. From Hawaii to Boston’s Cape Cod, Colorado to Greece, Johns writes as she marvels at her surroundings and experiences. Her compassion for people is beautifully expressed either as poetic observations or unique tributes found in the chapter titled, “In Awe.” The heartwarming “Joy in Her Swing” celebrates the resilience of five-year-old Azaria whose mother and grandmother passed away within three years of each other, entrusting her care to her grandmother’s devoted selfless childhood friend. Johns’ prose poem, “She Speaks for Me,” is a masterpiece showcasing renowned African and African American women poets who persuade her writing.
Johns has a lot to say about the human condition. Some poems are concise while others are grouped in the chapters titled “Rants and Spiels” or “Keynotes.” She passionately addresses hunger, gun violence, women’s empowerment, and prejudice, among other contemporary issues. Anyone with a heart will be stirred by “Hunger, a Global Tragedy” and “It Has to Stop,” two poignant poems illuminating the realities of hunger and the poet’s gut-wrenching reaction to yet another senseless school shooting. Johns is a personal figure in “Not Eclipsed” and “Life as a Breeze,” expressions concerning skin color and prejudice.
Johns imparts the spirit of Hawaii’s aloha in Encore’s message. “My Walk Along the Ocean” and “Blessed Life” are examples of poems reflecting tranquil moments of immense gratitude. Encore’s expressions are accompanied by complementary images and quotes-the poet’s signature accent found in her two previous collections. With Encore, Zaneta Varnado Johns leaves an indelible mark with every word and artistic rendering.
🌸 Garden of Neuro Institute-A Safe and Brave Space for Women- Presents: What Matters Journal – Introductory Session with Zaneta Varnado Johns 🌸
Greetings, beautiful souls! 🌺
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery with the Garden of Neuro Institute as we launch our year-long exploration into the realms of mental wellness, self-care, gratitude, and mindfulness. Join us for the Introduction to What Matters Journal with Zaneta Varnado Johns, the visionary behind this empowering tool for personal growth.
Event Details: 📅 Date: January 9, 2024 🕒 Time: noon EST 📍 Location: Online – Register via EventBrite
Agenda: ✨ Welcome and Opening Introductions ✨ Insights from Zaneta Varnado Johns on Creating the “What Matters” Journal ✨ Understanding the Year-Long Journey of Discovery ✨ Guided Tour of the Journal’s Features and Sections ✨ Q&A Session with Zaneta Varnado Johns ✨ Deciding on Your Monthly Commitment
About the What Matters Journal: The What Matters Journal is not just a journal; it’s a companion on your path to self-discovery and holistic well-being. Crafted by Zaneta Varnado Johns, this journal serves as a weekly guide to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Join us to explore its features:
🌿 Inspiring Open Poem: “What Matters” – a lesson in compassion for yourself and others. 🌸 Weekly Emotional Forecast: Reflect on what matters to you and why. 🌼 Prioritize Your Life: Delve into spiritual, physical, creative, relationship, intellectual, and financial aspects. 🌈 Opportunities for Growth: Assess goals, reflect, and track your progress. 🖌️ Mindfulness Art and Writing Prompts: Enhance peaceful thought and awareness. 🎨 Beautiful Art Pieces: Reflect on your monthly journey and express gratitude.
Features: 📅 Undated: Tailor it to your personal needs. 📏 Perfect Size: 6×9 inches with ample writing space on premium paper. 📖 Thoughtful Design: Quotes, prompts, and artistic expressions throughout. 📅 Reflection Pages: End of Week, End of Month, and End of Year.
Make a Difference – Gift the What Matters Journal: Share the brilliance of this 240-page, 6×9 inch journal with your loved ones. Be a guiding light on their journey towards self-care, gratitude, and compassion.
Let’s embark on this transformative journey together. RSVP now, and let the What Matters Journal be your guide to a year of discovery!
To register, go to the EventBrite link below, reserve your spot in the Garden of Neuro Institute’s sacred space.
Now’s to get in on this time limited special. Just click the link and make a purchase for only .99 for the Kindle version of Encore: A Colleciton of Poetry by Zaneta Varnado Johns.
What a perfect companion for when you are on the go. I like to load my Fire up with books, especially poetry, for those times when I want to hear poetry by using the voice play feature of Kindle.
Of course, you surely would love the paperback version. Either way or with both, it’s a win!
It is with great excitement that we announce the Book Launch for Encore: A Collection of Poetry by Zaneta “Zan” Varnado Johns will be on Sunday, October 15 at 3 p.m. EST
Joining Zan are prolific poets and writers, Chyrel J. Jackson, Sarfraz Ahmed, Jill Sharon Kimmelman, and Elizabeth O. Ogunmodede.
Be sure to sign up with Eventbrite to get your ticket.
Have you picked up your copy of Encore? If not, check out ZanExpressions for access to your preferred copy, be it an autographed version or direct purchase from an online store.
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