Life & Work with Juan Amador of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan Amador.

Hi Juan, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My passion for writing started when I was reading sci-fi novels from author Philip K. Dick. Later, I joined a local production group called Imaginese Us Free where I wrote short scenes with other writers and actors. We did showcases around Los Angeles. Around mid-2010s, I lost the grove of writing and began focusing more on acting. When the pandemic hit, I picked up the pen again and started writing poetry to fully express myself. Most importantly, therapy helped me to tackle what’s been killing me inside which was sexual trauma. Something that I didn’t want to acknowledge it, but I had to confront it. It became the fuel for my poetry. I went to open mics to be fully exposed. It was healing to hear myself speaking out in front of strangers, especially when they start to connect with you. A poet named Kuahmel referred me to a publishing class program called Community Literature Initiative (CLI) where I put together my first poetry book collection titled “Pimping My Trauma” that got published with Riot of Roses Publishing House LLC.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Oof! The human road was not and still not easy. I deserve a break from all this cataclysm. Being on survival mode all the time doesn’t help you to fully appreciate your own victories.

As for the poet road, it could be fun! I like to drive around Southern California to share my story. It could be mentally and emotionally exhausting at times but rewarding when you get to meet new people.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a spoken word poet that loves to tackle themes of alienation, masculinity, and trauma within the Latino community and from the POV of a sexual survivor raised in South Central Los Angeles. My proudest moment is when my book got released to world. Hopefully, it will inspire others to share their stories.
What sets me apart from others is that I take the audience on a ride with storytelling underlining with both humor and heart. They often respond positively to my poems “Mr. Nintendo” and “Fatboy”.
Some of my comic relief poems about my love for food like pancakes leaves the audience mesmerized and hungry.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My family because they are always there. They provide the whole emotional spectrum. Eating carne asada with them and getting food coma is the only time where I am at the most vulnerable and at peace. They made Sundays my favorite day of the week.

Also pancakes, because they’re warm and delicious. They pair well with Folgers coffee.

Pricing:

• Pimping My Trauma Book $20.00

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.juanamadorpoet.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thee_amador/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JuanAmador-Poet

Image Credits
Raelene Rizo
Alejandra Roggero
thesouthcentralarts