A Map for Exiting the Body

A decade ago, I desperately wanted to join a local writing group that consisted predominantly of writers who graduated from the MFA program at Fairleigh Dickinson University. For months, my social anxiety got the better of me. I kept saying I was going to show up, but then the date got closer and I backed out. The thought of walking into a room full of strangers was too overwhelming for me. I just couldn’t do it. But one month, sometime in the spring, I managed to talk myself into powering through my anxiety, and I was exceptionally happy that I did. The group was extremely welcoming, and after one workshop, I felt at home. Writing in many ways is a solitary activity. As an introvert, I enjoy being holed up alone with nothing but my thoughts and a blank screen in front of me. But it’s also fun to meet up with like-minded people who also wish to improve their craft. As a writer, community is important, and building relationships is vital.

It was there, at this local writer’s workshop, that I first met Jin Cordaro—the poet of the group. I have always struggled with poetry, but in reading, and attempting to critique, Jin’s poems these past ten years, I’ve gained a new appreciation for the genre. Some of Jin’s poems are humorous, others are serious. Her commentary on society is brilliant and her introspection enlightening. Regardless of the poem, her words are always thought provoking and a pleasure to read.

Recently, Terrapin Books published Jin’s first book of poetry—A Map for Exiting the Body. On Saturday, I was excited to attend her book launch party. Seeing her work—poems she workshopped with our group—in print was an amazing experience, as was hearing her read. If you enjoy poetry or are looking for something outside of your usual genre, I highly recommend her book. To learn more about it, or Jin, visit her website: JinCordaro.com.