“Under My Skin: Bones and Moonlight is a poetry collection that is autobiographical in nature.
It is the true story of a 4-year relationship I was in as a teenager/young adult that was filled with various abuses, but it also covers my pathway to healing in the years since. I have only read one other poetry book that was similar in tone/theme throughout, but mine is different by being in chronological order of events. The narrative ultimately delves into the evolution of this relationship, the emotional challenges that came with it, and my own personal growth in its aftermath.
What inspired you to write the book?
The inspiration comes directly from a relationship I was in from age 15 to age 19. Some poems have a more generalized examples of emotions, while others describe specific experiences. Most of the book is written in free verse poetry, but there are some examples of rhyming or repetition.
The desire to write this book came from my want to put my experiences to paper. I have used my writing to help heal. Now I want to use this to inspire others to leave relationships where they are not cherished and loved the way they deserve to be.
What is your target audience for the book?
The target audience is older teens and adults. Specifically, this is geared towards anyone who has been through something similar, regardless of gender or background. I want others to know that they are not alone, that help is out there, and it can get better. I even include those with similar experiences within my dedication!
What do you hope readers could get out from your book?
I hope readers get a sense that they are not alone. Abuse can happen to anyone, and it is not your fault. I want readers to get a sense of hope as they come towards the end of the book. It does get better, but healing can take time. Anyone can face emotional challenges, but learning to navigate them and finding the strength to do so is challenging. Bravery comes in many forms, as well.
What are your future goals/plans for the book?
A future goal for the book would be for it to be used by therapists and support groups for domestic violence around the English speaking world. I want this story told so others can relate to it. Writing this book has been cathartic for me, and I hope others can experience a similar type of catharsis by reading it. My therapist has told me she is going to recommend the book to her patients, and I hope others will do the same.
In the future, I plan to come out with a second book in a similar vein of autobiography, but this time about a different abuser in my life. The writing for this is still in progress, but I am hoping for it to be finished by the end of 2024.
About Me
Brandi Dise is a poet living in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was recently featured by Silent Spark Press in the e-book and physical book Remarkable Poetry (Volume 8 for the physical copy). She was also featured in the Fall/Winter 2022 edition of the online literature magazine Wicked Gay Ways. Two of her poems will be featured in the first volume of the e-magazine 7DeadlyThoughts.
The first in her immediate family to graduate from college, she received her bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University in 2020. When she is not writing, Brandi enjoys spending time with her family & pets, reading fiction, and watching anime.
A huge thank you to the Author’s Lounge for reaching out to me offering me the opportunity to share a few words about my poetry collection, and my story. If you want to pursue a copy of my work, here are some links:
Amazon: Under My Skin: Bones and Moonlight
Website: Barnes and Noble
