Poetry Night in Charleston, SC
Between the Lines with AsiahMae
Charleston’s poetry community continues to grow, and Poetry Night at The Restoration Charleston celebrates that creative energy. The upcoming Poetry Salon features Charleston Poet Laureate AsiahMae, a writer known for powerful performances and community-driven work.
The Journey to Charleston Poet Laureate
AsiahMae has served as Charleston’s Poet Laureate for less than two years. However, their connection to poetry began much earlier.
“I watched Jill Scott perform her first album when I was 10,” Mae said during our interview. “That’s when I realized I wanted to be a poet.”
That moment shaped the kind of poet Mae hoped to become. It also defined the impact they wanted their poetry to have.
Themes in AsiahMae’s Poetry
AsiahMae’s work often explores themes such as:
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queerness
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Black identity
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radical healing
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self-love
Because they identify with both Black womanhood and a non-binary identity, their writing often feels deeply personal. Performing poetry offers both expression and comfort.
At the same time, Mae hopes to create spaces where others feel equally safe sharing their voices.
Building Community Through Poetry
Community has always played a major role in AsiahMae’s work.
In 2016, the same year Marcus Amaker became Charleston’s first Poet Laureate, Mae co-founded IllVibeTheTribe. The group organized events that supported local and underground artists.
These gatherings helped increase visibility for emerging creative voices throughout Charleston.
When the Poet Laureate position opened in 2021, AsiahMae’s commitment to community stood out. After meeting with educators, poets, and local leaders, the selection committee saw them as a true advocate for Charleston’s creative scene.
“I’m honored,” Mae said. “I understand what it means to others, but I’m still discovering what it means for me.”
Writing Workshops and Creative Spaces
Today, AsiahMae continues to expand opportunities for local writers.
As Poet Laureate, they organize workshops, mentorship programs, and writing events. Each initiative encourages collaboration and creative exploration.
One of these opportunities will take place at The Restoration Charleston.
Poetry Salon at The Restoration Charleston
The Restoration Charleston will host a Poetry Salon with AsiahMae in The Library. The event invites writers from all genres to share their work in a welcoming environment.
During the evening, participants may discuss writing topics and even create new pieces together.
“We’ll talk about different topics surrounding writing,” Mae explained. “But the goal is to help people connect with the writers behind the words.”
Advice for New Writers
For anyone still searching for their voice, AsiahMae offers simple advice.
“Experiment. Explore. Let yourself be inspired by everything,” Mae said. “And most importantly, read poetry.”
Their message encourages writers to stay curious and open to inspiration.
Event Details
Poetry Salon with AsiahMae
📍 The Restoration Charleston – The Library
📅 Thursday, March 21
⏰ 7:00 PM
The event is free and open to adult writers of all genres.
For additional details, visit The Restoration Charleston Happenings page.
To learn more about AsiahMae and explore their work, visit asiahmae.com.
