BOOK REVIEW
“One line, or two?”
Tyneisha Ternent’s collection of poems is an emotional and physical rollercoaster ride of a first pregnancy. It’s a journey from finding out she’s pregnant, moving forward throughout the three trimesters, and differing concerns and moods.
In the first chapter, there’s an honest dialogue “anxiously awaiting for the results of this test, one line, or two,” where Ternent wonders about the first response from herself, and baby daddy. There’s a sense of worthlessness, like everyone else deserves better besides herself. Coming from a troubled past that comes back to haunt her, she worries the baby’s father would repeat history and flee; but she goes on to mend her worries finding someone who is ‘the whole package’.
The book discusses the normal things of weight gain, morning sickness, unbalanced hormones, and keeping the baby’s sex a ‘surprise’. Bearing Fruits, is a fresh insight to one person’s story to highlight the highs and lows. Especially the ‘waiting period’ during the first trimester to tell people. But in-turn, Ternent learns she must learn from her past experiences feeling the need to show up.
The second chapter progresses the book into a state of asking for forgiveness. “If I knew I was capable of such a beautiful miracle, I would have planned it better,” Ternent confesses. With a sense of not feeling capable and beating herself up, there’s a feel of light coming into her story, “I will teach you only to go where the light is,” showcasing a newfound strength.
As chapter three approaches, there’s a sense of relief and excitement to meet her baby. Now feeling prepared for the unplanned, there’s many things happening on the sidelines like setting boundaries, managing tough love, and feeling whole. It’s an empowering progression of the book with a positive further outcome.
It’s clear that Ternent was questioning if she’s good enough to be a mother, while going through the emotions of gaining confidence, to losing it, to gaining it back. Being brutally honest about anxiety, discomforts, love, and wonder - it’s a beautifully crafted poetry collection for any mother, or mom-to-be.
As the book progresses, Ternent has a sense of humour that makes the book an interesting read with some simple seriousness that have fragile, blunt, and down-to-earth poems that truly bring the story to life as if the writer is telling you in company.
For the final chapter titled Section C, the writer finally meets her daughter - it’s a beautiful story told with courage. Although there’s many highs and many lows, Ternent fought her way through to find happiness. Yes, there will still be many highs and many lows, but this journey is just beginning. Finishing out the book with a love letter to her husband, and dedicating the book to her daughter, Bearing Fruits, is truly an exceptional read.
Over the course of the 100-page plus read, it’s clear to see that Ternent wrote this book to speak to mothers, encouraging them to find their own strong voices. It’s an empowering read with many highs, and many lows - but it’s a truthful account of her story that will inspire others, and in-turn make somebody else feel less alone.
Words by Danielle Holian
INTERVIEW
Tell us a bit about your writing background.
I have completed broadcast journalism courses at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. I also completed some communication courses at York University. In July of 2019, I completed a Business Writing program at Berkeley University.
What, or who, inspired you to start writing?
Writing has always been a passion of mine. When listening to a song that connects with my soul, I just have to enjoy the vibrations. Whether that is by dancing or singing, I need to express it. Another way to do it is by writing my own version of that song. Early Nicki Minaj, Beyonce, and Alicia Keys inspired me to start writing music. Rupi Kaur inspired my poetry book titled
Bearing Fruit.
And what influenced your book ‘Bearing Fruits’?
Rupi Kaur definitely influenced my poetry book. Years ago, when I first read Milk and Honey, I got goosebumps. Firstly because she is a fantastic writer, but also because I saw similarities in our writing styles. I always dreamed of writing a poetry book; I just did not know what I wanted to write about. Once I got pregnant and started writing, I knew that I had to write the book now.
How do you find the balance between writing about your own personal experiences and exploring topics that may not necessarily be autobiographical, but still speak ato so many people?
Finding a balance between writing about my experiences and exploring topics can be challenging. I usually start with a personal experience then use creativity to elevate the story or poem to make it more relatable, engaging, or entertaining. I always strive to create connectable content; I want people to read my poetry and feel like someone ‘gets them’. I don’t fear speaking my truth; I am not ashamed of the skeletons in my closet. We all have them, and I would rather be strong in the hopes of helping someone else instead of trying to be perfect.
What makes a piece of your writing right to post on your Instagram, versus the ones that stay in the book only?
That is a great question; I have actually never been asked that! On Instagram, my posts are usually short and sweet – right to the point. I post positive quotes that are easily shareable and can relate to many people. In my book, I am more personal. I talk about things that aren’t so pretty, things that I may be ashamed of. I showcase my true nature in my books and give readers a more intimate version of myself. Basically, my Instagram is always G- rated, and my books can get PG-13.
And finally, what advice would you give to aspiring writers?
I would tell all writers to keep on writing and follow your heart! If writing is truly a passion of yours, if you want to be successful in this industry, then keep on writing! Don’t be afraid to get real; there is beauty in chaos. As you know yourself. Don’t give up on your dreams. Work hard, and you will reap the benefits.
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