Can Fantasies Become Real?

A deep dive into the heart of William Aaron Garga ushers us into some beautiful truth on both the artist and his art as a poet.

Conversations. Palm wine. Relaxation. Wisdom and everything in-between are some of the words that best describe William Aaron Garga’s poetry.

Do you ever want to read a piece and be so drawn into it that the lines come alive and become a safe space for you? William’s art offers this and more.

Join us on this Exclusive Interview with him.

Enjoy and Stay Inspired:

What does Art mean to you?

Art catapults me into a world of creativities, imaginations and possibilities. To me, art is the heartbeat of this world. Art has inspired me to go back to my roots to study and appreciate my culture. 

What inspires you as a poet and what does being a poet mean to you?

It is funny how I get my inspirations. I can get inspiration from my dreams or taking a shower. Victory, struggle, love, betrayal, sickness and healing; everyday life activities inspire me to write. Being a poet gives me the power to step out of my comfort zones, spread my wings and write to cause a change. 

Have you ever held back your gifts at some point, perhaps through self doubt? Have you ever felt it ‘boxed’ by someone else or an experience?

Yes, I have held back a lot of times especially when I am telling a new story and I am not getting my facts right because  I don’t want to put negative fact out there or misinform my audience. No, I have never been boxed by someone. 

You describe your Art as ‘Palm Wine Poetry,’ what’s the inspiration behind the name?

In the olden days, the palm wine joints were the places for socialization. People from all walks of life meet at these local joints to share wine, folk music, legends and their problems. At these joints, people are free to express themselves. As a poet, I strive to create that  “under the big tree” effect. The palm wine joint effect. We drink and make merry but we learn, relearn and lift our burdens hence the name, “Palm Wine Poetry.“

Speaking on impact, what are the major things you like to achieve with your poems?

My poetry to be translated to many languages. My poems taught in schools around the globe and I become a bestseller. 

How was growing up like?

Growing up on the mountains was great. My family and friends were wonderful and supportive. They have inspired some of my works. 

Do you feel Creatives in developed countries are at advantage than those in developing countries?

Yes, developed countries are ahead of us but that does not prevent us from stepping up, creating more and breaking records. There’re many creatives in developing countries. I think, we have to take advantage of resources available to us like social media to promote our works. 

Who are your ‘ICONS’ in the world of poetry? 

Maya Angelou, Rumi, Langton Hughes, Kofi Awoonor, and Chinua Achebe. 

What does success mean to you?

Success hhahahaha. Success means the laughter in my eyes and the fire in my bones. Success means opening of new doors for others to achieve their goals in life. 

Let’s go a little poetic: If poetry is a rainbow and you have a choice of one color in that pallette, what would that be and why?

Yellow, my favorite color. I love yellow because of its boldness and richness. 

If you could do a collaborate as a photographer with any other artist, what Art would that be? 

Poetry, music, and movies. I am always ready  for local and international collaborations. 

Please briefly tell us something we do not know about William Aaron Garga.

William Aaron Garga is sweet as a fresh palm wine hahhahahah. I love farming too. 

I’m glad to join the stars for this edition.

Thanks for having me.

You Are Everything Beautiful William.

From The Entire ICONIC Team,

Massive love!

Thrive on!!