Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I was born and raised in Kinston, NC. I guess because of certain challenges (mostly internal, such as self-esteem, confidence, and fear), I quickly developed a creative imagination in order to cope.
When did you first start writing?
I'm sure that I was in elementary school. Sixth grade was a turning-point though; it's when I was first exposed to Poe's "The Raven."
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