The Peach Pit Mask

<p>In a world that silenced her voice Sammi Yamashiro's own thoughts provided her the solace that she needed.</p><p><br></p><p>Written during the years of 2017-2020 the collection covers enduring and internalizing abuse which subsequently resulted in her depression anxiety depersonalization life-ending thoughts hospitalization and other deeply personal happenings. Her poems also cover identity issues with her race and religion/spirituality. Compared to the likes of Walt Whitman and Sylvia Plath Yamashiro's writing emanates the artistry and transparency reminiscent of surrealism and confessional poetry respectively. </p><p><br></p><p>Even with the heavy subjects she often writes on a sizeable portion of these works are empowering and optimistic. Within every abuse/ trauma survivor is the core that fights back: the vigor which knows the strength that has never left. This collection shows both the struggle against life's tribulations and the acknowledgement of a survivor's power. Yamashiro's poetry is her peach-pit gas mask giving her the vitality to navigate through life's mustard gas-filled battlefield of opposition and obstacles. </p>