Writer Feature: Raymond Sewell
The Writer's Notebook
*
The Writer's Notebook *
Raymond Sewell is from Canada and one of IHRAM Press’ treasured writers. In this interview, Raymond shares their musings, inspiration, and honest thoughts on their experience with us as an author and activist.
Raymond’s latest publication with IHRAM Press, “Paper Angel: Act I,” is featured in the IHRAM Quarter 4 Literary Magazine: Indigenous Voices.
Thank you for all you do, Raymond.
Now, be honest, how has your experience been with IHRAM Press? How did you find us, and why did you choose to publish with us?
I came across the call on Facebook. I had looked at other publications by y'all and thought this would be a good home for my work. I know the publishing world often reflects the status quo; however, this publication amplified voices that could typically be left out.
Would you recommend IHRAM Press to other writers/artists?
Of course. You are open to new ideas and treat writers well. The editing process was reflective and considerate.
Share a quote from your poem published in IHRAM Literary Magazine 2024!
“Ships anchoring
Murder hammers
Maritime Murder Song
Heave ho
Heave ho
Heave ho”
Now for the fun questions! What compels you to pick up a pen or open your laptop to free-write? And what inspires/influences your writing, particularly when it comes to addressing human rights issues?
I am inspired by authors like James Baldwin who said we have an obligation to write. We need to write for others who can't because of circumstances.
The human rights concerns addressed in the IHRAM literary magazine are often complex and challenging to navigate. How do you navigate the balance between highlighting these challenges and maintaining a sense of hope or optimism in your writing?
I shared my experiences, the ones that made the front of my nose feel like crying. I knew if I leaned into those feelings, someone else would resonate with me. I feel sometimes you have to get your work out before you have time to overthink things.
How do you personally connect with our mission? Particularly on the power of art and literature to influence social change, and our values of beauty as a fundamental creative principle, sincerity, vulnerability, celebrating diversity, and opening doorways of engagement.
You allow authors to be vulnerable. You understand that art can change oppressive systems if not immediately, then by eroding them. Working with you all has helped me share my story and connect with others.
The IHRAM magazine aims to celebrate authors contending with their identities within the context of their environments. How does your environment influence your view of the world (your home country, city, and surrounding culture)?
Being embedded in Canadian society is tough. There is a thought that Canadians are beloved and benevolent - somehow different than other colonizers. It's tough to write. Sometimes you worry about the implications.
In comparison, how does your intersectionality influence your view of the world (your personal beliefs, gender expression, religious affiliations, etc.)?
I am gender fluid. I find it something others have trouble with. They always take it personal in a weird way.
Support Activist Writers
*
Support Activist Writers *
Read and enjoy all of Raymond’s work:
Raymond works in continuity with traditions of L'nu storytelling. Nekem has also had mentorship via ECW & the Audible Indigenous Writers Circle. While writing The Apotheosis of Sgus, Raymond worked at Banff and received mentorship there as well.
Poems from the book have been published via Poetry For Indigenous Month on APTN, Maritime Haiku, Yellow Medicine Review, Spiritus Mundi, Powredzine, and NiCHE: Network in Canadian History and Environment.
You can find Raymond on Instagram.
