DJ while evicted

Below are three documentary poems written by Susan B.A. Somers-Willett and produced by Lu Olkowski for In Verse’s “Women of Troy”. Photographs by Brenda Ann Kenneally.

In the Office of Temporary Assistance

In the Office of Temporary Assistance

This poem is about an afternoon poet Susan B.A. Somers-Willett spent with Billie Jean at the New York State Office of Temporary Assistance. All of the language except for the last sentence comes from the forms. It’s a found poem read by Susan B.A. Somers-Willett.

Just A Girl

Just a Girl

Troy is a very patriotic city. They have a huge Flag Day Parade every year. Every one comes out to it. Billie Jean is no exception. This poem is written by Susan B.A. Somers-Willett and read by photographer, Brenda Ann Kenneally.

The Cutting Place

The Cutting Place

DJ is 32 and works part time in a convenience store at a gas station. She has seven kids. During the making of this piece, DJ was in between apartments and some of her children were staying with her mother – Mama Vic. This poem is about an opportunity DJ had to go have her hair cut. It’s also about Mama Vic and how she views her daughter’s life. This is written and read by Susan B.A. Somers-Willett.

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