Equal Expectations: The Pressure of Perfection on Black Women Writers in Publishing

Black Writer Therapy Podcast

**Episode Description:**

Join us in this thought-provoking episode of Black Writer Therapy as we dive deep into the world of action thriller author Yasmin Angoe, the brilliant mind behind the Nina Knight series. Yasmin shares her insights on how cultural experiences shape relationships and writing, the challenges of self-care and empowerment for black women, and the importance of intentional storytelling. We explore the struggles and triumphs of a writer striving for authenticity without exploitation, honoring personal history and grief while celebrating culture. Prepare to be inspired and engaged as we discuss the pressures of perfection, genre labeling, and the art of increasing tension in storytelling.

**Episode Highlights:**

- **00:04:35** Cultural experiences shape relationships and writing: Yasmin Angoe reflects on how her cultural background has influenced her writing style and the dynamics of her characters' relationships.

- **00:09:32** Ananiya, the contradiction within: Explore the complexities of Ananiya, a quiet and conservative woman who struggles with self-care and rebuilding her power as a black woman, while fiercely protecting her loved ones.

- **00:16:57** The power of intentional storytelling: Discover how Yasmin Angoe crafts a closed-off experience for readers through deliberate storytelling choices, capturing their attention and keeping them engaged.

- **00:22:38** Embracing spontaneity: Learn about Yasmin's approach to writing, where she embraces spontaneity and avoids heavy planning, allowing her creativity to flow freely.

- **00:27:29** Authenticity over exploitation: Hear Yasmin's commitment to authentic storytelling and her conscious effort to avoid exploiting sensitive subjects or cultures in her writing.

- **00:33:22** Delving into characters' lives: Yasmin shares her writing process, which involves delving deep into her characters' entire lives to create well-rounded and relatable personas.

- **00:39:50** Honoring personal history: Discover how Yasmin's writing is a heartfelt tribute to her deceased father, as she explores themes of grief, while celebrating her rich cultural heritage.

- **00:47:37** The pressure to be perfect: Explore the challenges Yasmin faces as a writer, navigating the expectations of perfection in the writing and publishing industry.

- **00:52:20** Breaking free from big concepts: Yasmin discusses the pressure to create big concepts in writing and the freedom she finds in crafting thrilling action and psychological genres.

- **00:58:47** Genre labeling dilemmas: Join the conversation about the struggles of categorizing books and genres, and how it affects both writers and readers.

- **01:06:01** Relating to characters: Delve into the issue of readers not fully connecting with characters and the importance of creating relatable and multidimensional personas.

- **01:11:44** Struggling with self-branding: Yasmin opens up about the challenges of commodifying her own brand and finding the right balance between authenticity and marketability.

- **01:22:01** Triumphs and milestones: Discover Yasmin's journey, from quick rejections to finding a new agent, winning awards, and achieving publication success.

- **01:27:27** Increasing tension in storytelling: Join us as we explore the art of creating tension, including compelling character interactions, to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

- **01:34:12** Special announcement: Yasmin shares exciting news about her latest project, "Black Veronica," a captivating story with a black protagonist.

**Discussion Questions:**

1. Nina Knight, the quiet contradiction: How does her struggle with self-care and rebuilding her power resonate with you as a black woman?

2. In intentional storytelling, what elements do you believe create a closed-off experience for readers? How can you apply these techniques to your own writing?

3. Are you a heavy planner or do you embrace spontaneity in your writing process? How does this approach impact your creativity?

4. How do you strive for authentic storytelling without crossing the line into exploitation? What are some conscious choices you make to honor sensitive subjects and cultures?

5. When developing your characters, do you delve deep into their entire lives? How does this contribute to creating well-rounded and relatable personas?

6. Have you explored personal history, grief, or cultural celebrations in your writing? How do these themes impact the overall narrative?

7. The pressure to be perfect in writing and publishing: How do you navigate these expectations and maintain your authenticity as a writer?

9. How do you feel about genre labeling and its impact on readers? Do you struggle with categorizing your own work?

10. Have you encountered agents or editors who claim they aren't able to relate to your characters? How do you navigate it through the lens of a Black woman seeking representation?

Connect with Yasmin Angoe

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Until next time, remember writing is an intentional act of healing. Thanks for listening!

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