News Summary
Local poet Maria Zoccola is preparing to release her debut poetry collection titled ‘Helen of Troy, 1993’ on January 14, 2025. The book reimagines the ancient tale of Helen of Troy through a contemporary lens and addresses themes of agency, identity, and choice. Zoccola, who has roots in Memphis, will celebrate her launch with a public event at the Novel bookstore, marking an important milestone in her literary journey.
Memphis Poet Maria Zoccola Set to Illuminate the Literary Scene
Exciting news is coming out of Memphis! Local poet Maria Zoccola is gearing up for the release of her debut poetry collection titled Helen of Troy, 1993. Set to hit the shelves on January 14, 2025, this collection is already stirring up buzz across the community and beyond. Published by Scribner, the book promises to reimagine the ancient tale of Helen of Troy in a fresh and contemporary light.
A Passion for Writing Since Childhood
Maria Zoccola’s journey into the world of writing began long before she pursued her degrees in writing from Emory University and Falmouth University. Growing up in Memphis, her early creative sparks were fanned into flames when, as a fifth grader, she found herself daydreaming about dragons instead of focusing on her homework. This love for storytelling went so far that she would sneak books into her brother’s sports games just to get a fix of literature.
A Creative Mind at Work
Throughout her career, Zoccola has honed her craft, with her poetry featured in respected journals like Ploughshares, The Kenyon Review, and The Iowa Review. She also brings to the table her experience as a freelance journalist for the Daily News in Memphis. In an effort to nurture young writers, she founded a nonprofit called the Young Author Project in Savannah, Georgia, where she conducted creative writing workshops for youth, further proving her dedication to fostering creativity in others.
Myth Meets Modernity
Zoccola has long been captivated by Greek mythology, having read the famous works of Homer’s Odyssey and Iliad multiple times. Her interest in these ancient tales finds its way into her poetry, particularly through the lens of “persona” poems where she adopts the voice of various characters. Initially, her take on Helen from the Iliad was one of frustration, especially regarding her perceived lack of agency. However, significant life changes, such as moving back to Memphis and purchasing a home, allowed Zoccola to revisit Helen’s narrative.
A New Perspective on Helen
With the backdrop of 1990s Tennessee, Zoccola deftly reinterprets Helen’s story, turning her abduction into an empowering elopement. This creative shift restores Helen’s agency and presents her character through a modern lens. Expect to encounter themes of isolation, maternal challenges, and rebellion against societal norms that resonate deeply with readers today. Zoccola has employed familiar settings, drawing inspiration from places like football games, Chuck E. Cheese, and even a Motel 6 bathroom, breathing life into her poetic retelling with intimacy and relatability.
Launching the Book in Her Hometown
The icing on the cake is that Zoccola will celebrate the launch of Helen of Troy, 1993 with a book release party at the Novel bookstore in Memphis, starting at 6 p.m. on January 14, 2025. This event is open to the public, and it’s a wonderful chance for the community to come together and honor a homegrown talent. Zoccola herself highlights the significance of debuting her poetry in the hometown where her literary journey began, where her family has deep roots.
Engaging Readers Through Poetry
Through her collection, Zoccola invites readers to engage with Helen’s character while reflecting on broader themes such as choice, identity, and narrative ownership. In a world that often stifles women’s voices, her poetry stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of agency in storytelling. With her inventive and transformative approach, Zoccola seamlessly blends modernity with ancient mythology, promising an enriching reading experience.
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Additional Resources
- Memphis Magazine: Bluff City Bard
- Wikipedia: Poetry
- Choose901: Maria Zoccola – Helen of Troy, 1993
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
- The Atlantic: Maria Zoccola – Helen of Troy
