An Interview with Hope Pecord

Hope Pecord is a 17-year-old poet whose work is deeply rooted in personal experience and emotional truth. She began writing seriously in eighth grade and uses poetry as a way to explore stigma, healing, and identity. A dancer for 12 years, Hope found her voice in writing after stepping away from the art form due to its toxic environment. Since then, poetry has become a powerful outlet and a reclaiming of self. Encouraged by family, friends, and teachers, she is now sharing her work with the world.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

My family and close friends have always been an inspiration for me, and after I quit dance, I discovered my passion for poetry.

Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

It definitely took forever. But I noticed most of my poems that most of poems were based on things that no one ever says, like mental illness, eating disorders, or grief. My main “secret” is the fact that I am not as fine as I try to be.

Describe your dream book cover.

My dream cover would have butterflies on the cover that are green, representing mental health, and on one wing of a zoomed-in butterfly would be little secrets, like I’m fine, I read terms and conditions.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

“Fat Funny Friend” by Maddie Zahm

“Bad Thoughts” by Rachel Plattern

“Walked Through Hell” by Anson Seabra

What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?

I am currently reading Looking for Alaska by John Green, which is one of my favorite books.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I was a dance teacher for three years.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

My closest friend, Livia, has been someone who has encouraged me to continue to write poetry and start a book.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I love to write in my bedroom, curled up with my favorite blanket, listening to music and writing in my journal.

What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?

I would say stand strong in your truth and don’t be so shy about your poems because they could help someone out there who is struggling just as much.

What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?

I hope that it helps my readers find healing and/or understand what others might be going through instead of judging first.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.