These Words Are Not My Home: Writing From The Unhoused
Introduction
By R.A. Washington
In the quiet corners of Cleveland’s streets, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, there exists a chorus of voices waiting to be heard. These are the voices of the unhoused—individuals whose stories often go untold, their words drowned out by the noise of society’s indifference. But within these pages, you will find a different narrative—one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering humanity. Welcome to “These Words Are Not My Home - Writing From The Unhoused,” an anthology born from the depths of lived experiences and the power of storytelling. At the heart of this project lies the longstanding work of Annie Holden and Lydia Bailey at 2100 Lakeside, whose dedication has established a tradition of poetic investigation and sharing. Their commitment to providing a space for expression and exploration has paved the way for the voices within this anthology to be heard. The poetry and stories we’ve collected illuminate the complexities of life on the margins, and challenge perceptions and ignite empathy. Each word, each sentence, each piece of prose is a testament to the resilience and creativity that thrives in even the most challenging of circumstances. It is a reminder that, despite the barriers that society erects, the human spirit cannot be silenced. As you turn these pages, may you be moved, inspired, and transformed. May you see beyond the stereotypes and statistics to the individuals behind them, each with a story worth telling and a voice worth amplifying.
As you reach the end of this anthology, recognize it as part of a larger initiative. “These Words Are Not My Home” is the inaugural installment in a series of anthology-styled chapbooks activated by the Amplify Fellowship, initiated by Lit Cleveland. Consider this anthology not only as a collection of stories but also as a platform for expression and connection. Let it serve as a reminder of the diversity of human experience and the importance of listening to marginalized voices. And as you close these pages, acknowledge the ongoing conversation it represents. Let it inspire dialogue, foster understanding, and challenge perceptions. For in the end, it is through collective storytelling that we bridge divides and cultivate empathy. Welcome to the beginning of a journey. Welcome to the amplification of voices that too often go unheard.
Forward
by Annie Holden
People may think that individuals who are unhoused would not give a hoot about poetry. Think again! There is something special that happens in the room as they write their own poems then read them out loud. It takes great courage to put one’s feelings on paper and even more guts to share them with strangers. Whether a first timer or a regular, the folks that gather respond openly and with curiosity to the material. Heads nod with murmurs of “I feel that way too, man.” It feels like a sacred space. None of us leave the room the same way we came. We’ve been blessed with a dedicated group of poetry facilitators from the community. The poetry group dynamic is all-embracing. Anyone and everyone are welcomed into the group. If you like poetry, we like you, and it all works somehow. RA Washington, a poet, bookseller, music-maker, has brought his own powerful, distinctive voice to the mix, sharing his experiences and particular poetic perspective. He has enriched the process and sparked new ideas in the participants. He provides a much-needed outlet, a physical manifestation, a printed record of their work. And for that gift, we are grateful.
Every story of how a person becomes homeless is distinct and unique. There is no stereotype or “one-size-fits-all” description which will be apparent as you read through the selection of poems. It is safe to say that while the folks in our workshop have experienced more loss, injury and trauma than most of us, many remain hopeful, full of passion and humor, love and insight. In this collection of poems written by individuals ranging in age from 18 to 60-something, from all parts of the country, from all walks of life—the city streets, suburban sprawl, rural farmland, the justice system or system of injustice—what stands out is their humanity.
“By making us stop for a moment, poetry gives us an opportunity to think about ourselves as human beings on this planet and what we mean to each other.” -Rita Dove