Chiara Maxia is an Italian poet living in Paris who recently released her debut poetry book, The Fire Within. Chiara’s journey as an artist is nothing short of inspiring. From her roots in Sardinia, Italy, to her transition into the vibrant artistic circles of Paris, Chiara’s story shows how creativity can bridge different worlds and cultures.
About The Fire Within
The Fire Within is a collection of poems that delves into the depths of ordinary life, exploring the mundane and transforming it into something magical and profound. Chiara’s poetry is a reflection of her own life experiences, emotions, and observations. The book’s title is particularly fitting, as Chiara describes herself as being “made of fire,” a powerful metaphor for the passionate and intense nature of her creative process.
Inspirations Behind the Book
Chiara’s poems emerged naturally over time. She didn’t have a single pivotal moment that set her on this path but was rather guided by a series of experiences and feelings that materialized into poetry. Some of her work was written just months before her book deal, while other pieces date back several years. What sets The Fire Within apart is the authenticity and honesty in Chiara’s voice. One poem, “Cat Person,” pokes fun at the societal preferences for dogs over cats, while another, “Life Choices on a Sunday Morning,” sarcastically examines the pressures of conforming to societal expectations. Her poems are full of raw emotions, making mundane moments resonate with readers on a deep level.
Writing Process and Challenges
Chiara admits that her writing process is spontaneous; she writes whenever inspiration strikes and carries a pen and notebook with her at all times. This might not be the most disciplined approach, but it’s certainly effective for her. She believes in writing to make sense of the world, to fictionalize and understand the chaos within and around us.
The Journey to Publication
Chiara’s publication journey was surprising for her. Her publisher, Anton Bonnici from The Opiate Books, noticed her at a poetry reading and was so impressed that he offered her a book deal later over coffee. This chance encounter highlights the importance of getting your work out there—whether it’s through open mics, readings, or other artistic platforms.
Chiara believes poetry still holds significant importance in our world. It’s a form of art, and like all art, it helps us survive by making sense of our lives and surroundings. Her book doesn’t aim to change the world, but to touch readers, strike a nerve, and evoke emotions, however fleeting.
Future Projects
Chiara is excited about future projects, including a collection of short stories written in Italian. With her knack for capturing the grotesque and the ridiculous aspects of everyday life, these stories promise to be as engaging and thought-provoking as her poetry.
The Fire Within is available on all major book outlets, including Barnes & Noble, Waterstones, Blackwell’s, and Amazon. You can also find more about it on her publisher’s website, The Opiate Books.
Chiara Maxia’s The Fire Within is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary poetry. Her unique voice, coupled with her ability to find beauty in the mundane, makes this collection a remarkable debut.
