This week’s Campus Celeb is Kelsey Gustafsson, a 20-year-old sociology major with a specialized concentration in anthropology. She is also a poet, working on her first collection of writings! In an interview, she explained more about her soon-to-published book.
When did you start writing poetry?
I started writing poetry from the moment after I learned how to spell my first word. It was my only outlet for as long as I can remember.
What inspired you to share your writing?
I was nervous for the longest time. I was terrified that by releasing my work, people would look at me different since they would now know the thoughts that wander throughout my head. One day, I wrote something incredibly personal that I was going through. I figured that if I posted it, maybe someone out there could relate. It turned out A LOT of people felt similarly and deeply admired/appreciated my work. It was a huge weight off my shoulders.
What made you want to publish your book?
I have SO many book requests from wonderful fans of my work. My inbox flooded with over 2,500 requests from people all around the world. It made me so incredibly grateful that my work speaks to so many people, so I want to give back to all of them.
Are you working alone or with others to publish it?
I’m publishing it alone, but I’m getting lots of promotion from largely followed online magazines and even artists that my work inspired. I don’t want it to be about money either. So I’m trying to make sure it’s affordable for everyone.
What will the title be?
The book that will contain all my proses and poetry is still being put together. So, once that’s complete I’ll come up with a title. It takes me so long to think of a great title. I have a few in mind.
Are you only including poetry, or will there be artwork, short stories, etc.?
My artwork will be included as well as my proses and poetry.
Where do you see yourself two years from now regarding your writing career?
I have no idea. That’s a good question. I guess I just see myself continuing to write down my thoughts and if people love it, great! If they don’t, that’s fine too. It’s therapeutic for me, it’s how I help myself get through tough situations; though I love my fans, my words aren’t painted to please them–they’re painted to please myself.