Unveiling the Self: Jarred Isaac's Poetic Journey on "The Day with Trae"
Trae Holiday recently welcomed author Jarred Isaac to "The Day with Trae" for an insightful discussion about his new book, "Who Am I Without a Mirror." The interview delved into the profound themes of vulnerability, self-reflection, and the artistic process behind Isaac's collection of poems. Holiday opened the segment by celebrating the often-unsung heroes of written works, from local authors and poets to screenplay writers and event organizers, emphasizing how their meticulous planning and creative vision bring countless experiences to life, from concerts to major sporting events like the recent FIFA World Cup preparations in Seattle.
Isaac's conversation with Holiday revealed the deeply personal origins of "Who Am I Without a Mirror." He explained that the book emerged from extensive introspection, confronting both the visible and hidden facets of his identity. Isaac described the creative endeavor as an "unveiling," a "confronting" of the very things that constitute his being. He acknowledged the immense bravery required for such vulnerability, a key theme of the discussion. For Isaac, this willingness to expose one's deepest truths is the fundamental "task of an artist," to "do it afraid" and put their work out into the world regardless of potential perceptions.
The book, a collection of poems, is structured around three core components: the "lover boy" persona, the pursuit of justice, and the grounding influence of faith. Isaac elaborated on these pillars, describing the tender vulnerability of love, the collective fight for marginalized voices to be heard beyond cultural dissection, and the guiding presence of divinity in his daily life. He also acknowledged a "randomization" element, reflecting his multifaceted nature. While deeply personal, Isaac expressed a hope that his transparency might serve as a model for readers to engage in their own self-reflection, confronting their vulnerabilities and hidden aspects to achieve personal freedom and, in turn, free those around them.
"Who Am I Without a Mirror" is the culmination of years of writing, with some poems dating back four years. Isaac shared that a significant portion of the book's 77 poems were composed within a six-month period when he deliberately stepped away from his job to focus entirely on the project. This intense period of creation speaks to the profound dedication behind the work. The book is set to launch on Sunday, July 27th, followed by a poetry launch and listening session at Wanawari the very next day, Monday, July 28th. This event will also showcase Isaac's talents as a painter and screenwriter, offering a multi-faceted artistic experience. Isaac encouraged those interested to follow him on social media at @JarredIsaac_ for updates on purchasing the book and future events.
