An Interview with Nina Deveaux
When I first started writing poetry, it was during one of the most tumultuous times of my life; writing became a safe form of expression that, in turn, helped with my journey of healing. Under the alias ‘Nina Deveaux,’ I launched and published my first poetry book, Mythology. When I’m not writing or working on my business, I am taking naps or kissing cats.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
It started as an inspiration from my personal love life and past relationships. I was so madly in love with someone that I felt I was going crazy. I wanted to take those emotions and sensations from that relationship and transform it into a mythic tale like you read in the classics.
I didn’t want my book to just be ‘lovey-dovey’ mush, I wanted to invoke something dark, twisted, obsessive, and sensual. I have always been into religion and took some stories and shaped the plot of the book from those tales.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title of my book, A Singularity, was not difficult to come up with. I love science and cosmology, and as I watched a video on the physics of black holes, I said to myself that love is exactly like a black hole. It’s a powerful force of mystery that no one can escape and once you’re in it, you become someone changed.
The singularity is a theoretical term to describe where all matter absorbed by the black hole compresses into a single point. Some physicists believe that this is how our universe came into existence. I think love is exactly like that. We take all of our experiences, traumas, and relationships with us and it’s a big mystery whether or not it will reach a single moment in a relationship where we can create something beautiful or destructive.
Describe your dream book cover.
Personally, I think my book cover is perfect! The genre is poetry, and with poetry book titles the designs should be minimalist and subtle. They should give an abstract representation of the content of your book; they shouldn’t be extravagant like you see in fantasy book titles.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
My soundtrack would definitely feature some classics like Tchaikovsky – very haunting and somber. From a modern side, I think The Weeknd’s discography is perfect. It’s electrifying, toxic, and sensual. I use a lot of his songs in my social media posts for my book. My favorite songs are One Of The Girls and Timeless.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
Currently, I’m reading some esoteric writings for my next book, titled The Occult. I am also refreshing my reading of Divine Comedy and Paradise Lost; both of their poetic styles will be foundational for my next book.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
For my daytime job, I work as a receptionist for various companies/organizations. Something that my readers wouldn’t know is that at some point, I was an intern at the US Department of State. I worked in their Nuclear Nonproliferation Bureau…I know, it’s hard to believe.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My trauma and life struggles inspired me to write. During Covid, after I graduated college, I was lost and at the lowest point of my life. All of my childhood traumas and current issues came crashing down on me. I had nothing to do all day but write to keep myself sane.
One person who inspired me to put my vision and words onto paper was Lana Del Rey. Her lyricism and honesty in her music inspired me to be honest with myself and share that with the world.
Where is your favorite place to write?
My favorite place to write is Barnes and Noble or any cozy coffee shop. I love to write by the beach or in the morning on my deck.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Don’t ever question the vision. You are creative, eclectic, and authentic.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
Unity. I want everyone from all walks of life to feel connected to my work.
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