Beyond the Pages: An Inside Look at the Mind and Motivation of Z' Rya

BirdieMama
Aug 2
4 min read

Z' Rya S., poet and author of Lost in Time and From the Attic gives me a sneak peek into her world and what's coming next for her.

Who is Z' Rya?

I originally met this wonderful, yet quiet, and mysterious poet during my Birthday Bash drawing near the beginning of 2025. Her book was one of a handful of books that I drew to buy and read. I felt so lucky to have drawn her particular book as it was full of intriguing poetry, prose like I hadn't ever encountered before. What truly captivates me about Z' Rya is her unique voice, which stands out in a sea of sameness poetry. Her powerful prose is not merely a collection of words but a resounding form of expression that evokes deep emotions and thoughts. Each line she crafts carries a weight that will linger in your memory long after you finish reading her work.

Her prose daringly invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and feelings. There is sense of authenticity in her writing that is refreshing, making it clear that her work cannot be mistaken for that of any other poet. Z' Rya's ability to describe the complexities of human emotions and the inner workings of one’s identity, speaks to those of us who have often felt marginalized or misunderstood. Her poetry offers a sanctuary for those who find safety in the written word, allowing for a moment of connection in an otherwise isolating world. Through her verses, she brings darkness to light, and creates a bridge between dark experiences or thoughts and those of normalcy.

The Interview

Chapter Chirp: Tell me a little bit about yourself and how you decided to become a poet/writer.

Z' Rya: I grew up in South Carolina. As a kid, I didn't fit in, although I wasn't aware of it. Since I was little, I've been a reader, and I still am. I pursued a career as an author in my first

year of college, driven by my love of reading, as I had grown tired of being a forensic scientist. I hope that my poems will be meaningful and inspire me to continue.

Chapter Chirp: What do you love about poetry? What are some of your favorite poems, or favorite poets, and why?

Z' Rya: What I love about poets and poetry is the diverse styles poets create. The multiple

methods of translating concepts into poetic form. My poetic inspiration came from Edgar Allan Poe, whose writing style I found admirable. Poe conveyed his life experiences through poems that are well-known today. My top three favorite works include “The Raven,” “The Tell-Tale Heart,” and “The Cask of Amontillado.”

Chapter Chirp: How would you describe your poetic style, and how has your style evolved over time?

Z' Rya: Since I began writing, my poetic style has evolved to become distinctive, incorporating elements of darkness. As for style, it has evolved over the years, and I have ventured into other poetic styles, such as Haiku, and explored writing about topics I didn’t think I could express. However, I realized that poetry has no rules.

Chapter Chirp: What are your sources of inspiration, and what does poetry mean to you personally?

Z' Rya: For me, inspiration can strike at any moment, anywhere. Usually it happens while I’m listening to music in my car, particularly a blend of alternative and instrumental sounds, depending on my mood. In other instances, a childhood memory or a recent happening can spark the inspiration to get the rhythm of what I want to express. What poetry means to me is being able to express myself creatively in ways I didn’t expect. Regardless, I enjoy what I create.

Chapter Chirp: What do you think is the most challenging aspect of writing poetry and what challenges have you encountered while writing?

Z' Rya: The challenge in writing poetry is selecting words that accurately reflect your

thoughts and emotions. However, I struggle with self-doubt about the quality

of my poetry and whether people will like it while I'm writing.

Chapter Chirp: Do you have a book that you are currently working on and when can we expect to see a new release?

Z' Rya: I am slowly working on a few different projects. I'm currently focused on two key

projects: a psychological novella and a third poetry collection. Although the release

dates for both are yet to be determined, I’m eager to share them.

Final Thoughts

I don't always have an easy time relating to those around me and the world at large, often feeling like an outsider looking in. When Z’ Rya mentioned not feeling like she fit in, I found there to be a resounding connection to her and her poetry. Ironically, growing up, I found that I was also often the only person unaware of my own differences, oblivious to the ways that I personally differed from everyone else and their societal norms. This disconnect with others has shaped my perspective, and also made Z' Rya's poetry even more impactful for me. With that said, I would like to thank her for not only taking the time out of her schedule to do this eye opening interview with me but I'd also like to thank her for putting her poetry into the world for others to experience and treasure. I would like to encourage all of my readers but especially those who have ever felt like they don't fit in to read her work, and to go show love and support on her social platforms.

Instagram: @zryawrites

Pinterest: Zee

Threads: @zryawrites