Tell us about yourself.
I’m Kailey Oliver, a poet and self-published author, driven by my desire to uncover raw truths and offer fresh perspectives. I’ve always felt connected to the power of words and how they can deeply transform and heal. My journey as a writer began in my youth, where I found solace in journaling and creative expression. Over the years, my poetry became a way for me to navigate life’s most significant challenges while embracing the beauty in everyday moments.
What was your journey to getting published like?
My journey to getting published was all about believing in myself and trusting my voice. I knew from the start that I wanted to take control of my story and the way it would be shared with the world, so I chose the self-publishing route. It wasn’t always an easy path—there were moments of doubt and uncertainty—but I kept moving forward, refining my craft and learning as I went. Choosing to self-publish allowed me to remain true to my vision, and in the end, it became not just about getting my words into the world, but about owning my journey as an author.
What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve ever received?
The best piece of feedback I’ve received was when a reader told me my poetry made them feel seen and understood during difficult times. It reminded me why I write—my goal is always to connect with others and help them find healing or comfort in my words.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
My advice would be to write fearlessly and embrace your authentic voice. The path to writing can often feel overwhelming, but persistence and staying true to your message will pay off. Don't be afraid to start small, and always trust that your words can make a difference, no matter how much you doubt yourself in the beginning.
What’s a fun fact about you that your readers might not know?
A fun fact about me that many might not know is that I’ve always been drawn to the power of nature as a source of inspiration and healing. Whether it’s taking a quiet walk in the forest, sitting by the ocean, or simply being near water, these moments of stillness and connection with the natural world often inspire some of my most reflective and transformative poems. Water, in particular, has always been a symbol of flow and renewal for me. It’s my secret place for both grounding and creativity.
What’s your guilty pleasure book or genre?
My guilty pleasure genre would definitely be historical fiction. I love getting lost in the past, especially when a story brings history to life in such a vivid and emotional way. There’s something about the richness of different eras—their struggles, triumphs, and untold stories—that draws me in. It’s like stepping into another world, and I often find myself reflecting on how history shapes our present and future
What’s your favorite quote about writing?
{One of my favorite quotes about writing is by Maya Angelou: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” It resonates deeply with me, as writing has always been my way of releasing what’s inside and sharing it with the world.
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not writing, I love to explore new places and immerse myself in different cultures through travel. It’s an opportunity to break away from routine, recharge, and find fresh inspiration. Whether I’m wandering through quiet streets or navigating the energy of a bustling city, travel helps me see the world with new eyes. I also enjoy spending time with my family, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that nurture my creativity, like swimming. Each of these moments outside of writing feeds into my work, offering me new perspectives and ideas to bring back to the page.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I vividly remember reading Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice left a lasting impact on me. It was my introduction to how a simple story could convey such deep emotions and universal truths.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
My writing is largely inspired by the complexities of the human experience. I am influenced by everything from personal experiences to the emotional landscapes of others, and I find beauty in both the light and dark aspects of life. I aim to weave these threads into my poetry, making it relatable yet thought-provoking.
How do you deal with negative reviews?
Negative reviews are a natural part of the process, and I try to approach them with a sense of gratitude. Not every piece of writing will resonate with everyone, and constructive feedback is an opportunity to grow. I remind myself that writing is personal and subjective, and I stay focused on creating the work I’m passionate about.
How do you connect with your readers?
I connect with my readers through social media platforms, book events, and one-on-one interactions. I truly enjoy hearing their thoughts and interpretations of my work. It’s always fulfilling when someone shares how a particular piece of writing touched them.
What’s next for you as a writer?
In the future, I plan to continue expanding my literary work. I am currently working on a memoir that delves into my journey as a self-published poet and the experiences that shaped my life. I also hope to collaborate with other poets and artists to further explore creative expression.
Are there any Easter eggs or hidden messages in your work?
Yes! I often embed subtle messages in my work, whether it’s a reflection on personal growth or a commentary on societal issues. It’s my way of engaging readers who want to dig deeper into the meaning behind the words.
How do you approach writing dialogue for your characters?
In poetry, dialogue is less about direct conversation and more about capturing the emotional and internal exchange between the speaker and the world around them. I approach it by focusing on the rhythm, tone, and subtext within the words, using dialogue to reflect a deeper emotional truth or a moment of connection (or disconnection). Each line of "dialogue" is carefully crafted to convey not just what is said, but how it’s felt or understood by the speaker.
Often, in my poetry, the dialogue may not always be between two people, but between the speaker and their inner self, or the speaker and their environment. The intention is to make it raw and honest, reflecting the conflict or clarity they are experiencing in that moment. This allows the "dialogue" in my poems to have more space for introspection, vulnerability, and poetic nuance.
For example, in my book World Stained Us, the dialogue between characters or between the self and the world serves as a conduit for exploring the struggles with societal pressures, personal growth, or emotional transformation. Each interaction becomes a piece of the larger narrative, where words are not just spoken, but felt.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
I’d love to share that every word I write comes from a place of deep reflection and honesty. Writing has been my way of processing the world around me, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my work with readers who appreciate the vulnerability behind it.
Kailey Oliver’s Author Websites and Profiles
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.