Taking the L

Written between 2011 and 2021, this collection of poems and short essays reflects on experiences of being Black in America. Interweaving police violence, mothering in the midst of oppression, intimacy, and loss, Latrina invites you to fight, rest, cry and love. From "Bad Language" which addresses resiliency, to the cheeky "Naked" about personal discovery, Taking the L is a journey through sensuality, delight, grief, anger, and beautiful remembrances of what's needed to break through oppression to liberation.

About the Author

Latrina Kelly-James (she/her) is a writer from New Haven, Connecticut. She has worked over the years to build loving communities where Black and Brown folks can thrive and experience liberation. Her first collection of poems, Unraveling, was self-published in 2006. Latrina currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and two daughters.