In this episode of Spoken Word Poetry, Ariana sits down and talks with poet Gayle Danley. She is a slam poet who has been writing and sharing poetry with the world for most of her life. Her electrifying live performances have garnered critical appraise. She has been a frequent guest on NPR and has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and on CBS’ 60 Minutes. Her TED-Ed Talk, “Five Steps to Becoming a Slam Poet” has received upwards 600K views to date. In addition to being one of the nation’s most sought after inspirational writers and speakers, Ms. Danley is also an acclaimed teaching artist who’s been working with young people for over 15 years.
Sit down and listen as these two converse about life, poetry and our gifts.
“Within the depths of our mind, we are battling the duel of light and darkness…good and evil…love and hate…” Between Light and Darkness is Ariana’s most recent collection of poetry… Cherry’s frequent message she delivers throughout her work is, “The journey through the darkness, back into the light.”
Her hope is to let others know that they won’t be in that place of darkness for long – that they indeed can reach the light once again…She also wants her readers to know – that – it is okay if they find themselves in that bleak blackness…Sometimes we feel guilty for going to that dark place – but it is necessary to conquer the demons that battle our souls….
Other books that Cherry has written include "Only If" and "Twisted Paths Poetry." Her epic tale, “Only If,” won the “Reader’s Favorite Award” and a 5 star review…and her collection, “Twisted Paths Poetry,” received a 5 star review from Realistic Poetry International.
She has been writing ever since she was a child. Some of her inspirations include Edgar Allen Poe, Robert Frost, Stephen King, Emily Dickinson, Christopher Pike and Shel Silverstein.
Ariana writes a variety of genres: inspirational, humorous and horror – although writing horror is one of her favorites…. She was 12 years old when she read Poe for the very first time – which inspired her epic poetry tale, “Only If.“
During other parts of her free time, she enjoys taking photos and creating art. Her “day-jobs” include working as a church administrative aide and reporting for a local newspaper.
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Ariana R. Cherry: Poet & Artist 