In this engaging session of “Black Writer Therapy,” hosted by Ella Shawn, the spotlight shines on Eden Royce, a distinguished guest originally from Charleston, SC is known for her contributions to fantasy, sci-fi, and Southern gothic, horror, and speculative fiction. The conversation explores resilient storytelling, as Eden Royce gets into her healing journey, sharing insights on self-care and intentional living following life’s challenges.
Ella commemorates her 50th birthday, inspired by the Ethiopian Coptic Bible tradition of a ‘Jubilee year,’ symbolizing rest and reward. Their discussion anchors around intentionality, likened to the healing process and emphasizes surrounding oneself with positive influences to ensure personal growth. Eden captivates the audience with her cultural wisdom and reflections on the Southern Zodiac spread, alongside her lyrical writing to challenge stereotypes about Southern accents and highlight the strength of Black women.
The session also features an inspiring segment where Eden spontaneously crafts a story, illustrating the power of Black women writers in reclaiming lost histories and narratives. Discover Edens impactful works, including her middle-grade novel “Root Magic,” and her upcoming novella Psychopomp and Circumstance.
Subscribe to BWT Substack Community
The Black Writer Therapy podcast is proud to be apart of The Alive Podcast Network, home of the Black voice. To experience this and nearly 100 other podcasts hosted by Black creatives, be sure to download the Alive Podcast Network App. To show your support for Black Writer Therapy, choose Ella Shawn as your favorite host when you subscribe and 50% of your subscription comes directly to the show and ensures I’m able to keep bringing insightful content like this to you.
Show Title: Breaking Through Stereotypes: Eden Royce Talks Decolonizing Hoo Doo
CultureTakeaway Points:
-
Emphasizing self-care and intentional living, particularly in transformative periods such as turning 50.
-
Challenging cultural stereotypes while preserving cultural heritage and oral history.
-
The significance of storytelling in celebrating Black women’s contributions and fostering resilient narratives.
-
Eden Royce’s journey in integrating Gullah culture and language authentically in her works
Discussion Questions: Will be discussed on Substack Newsletter Chat
-
How do you perceive the role of storytelling in healing and personal growth?
-
In what ways does intentional living contribute to personal and professional development?
-
How can writers effectively challenge stereotypes and celebrate cultural heritage through their fiction?
-
What significance does the Jubilee year hold for personal rejuvenation and reflection?
Time Stamp Sections
00:00 Black writer therapy podcast: healing, storytelling, inspiration.
11:31 Writing releases emotions and alleviates worries.
16:27 Debut novel transitioned from short story writing.
22:56 Writer exploring Gullah culture in ongoing novel.
26:34 Respect others’ cultural practices; avoid misrepresentation.
30:55 History builds meaning and guides future generations.
37:10 Finding comfort and familiarity in certain texts.
43:13 Struggled to write a Zodiac story for an anthology.
49:18 Desire to challenge Southern stereotypes through storytelling.
56:46 The law of reflection reveals self-awareness.
59:09 Writing involves personal reflection and emotional connection.
01:05:52 Rereading “The Conjure-Man Dies” by Fisher.
01:10:20 Mythical creatures inspire creative transformation in writing.
01:15:49 Grandpa called death “yielding to Jesus.”
01:22:24 Upcoming works: flash fiction, novella, historical themes.