Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Lasana Philbert, and I’m a Trinidad-born, writer, poet, and self-published author. I write reflective poetry and prose.
In 2018, I self-published my first collection of poem titled, Thoughts from an Isolated Soul. Two years later, in 2020, I released my second collection titled, Reflections: Life in Hindsight while vacationing in Paris.
My writing career began early. But it wasn’t until college that I understood the power of writing.
After graduating from Bard College, I took my writing career seriously. I began recording my observations and feelings about everyday life in rural upstate New York.
Overtime, these recordings morphed into my first manuscript; and I never looked back since. I continued expressing myself through my writing. It was, and still is, the best outlet for self expression for me.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Introverted Thoughts is the title of my latest collection of poems. It’s set to be released late December, 2021.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing habits can be classified as unusual because I need complete Isolation to truly explore and express myself. However, wherever I’m met with inspiration to write, I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
“Song of Solomon” and The “Bluest Eye,” by Toni Morrison influenced me tremendously as a writer.
I consider her the catalyst of my adult writing career. The way she expressed herself through her literature, inspired me to express myself through my poetry. Touching on the same subjects like race, religion, politics, and life in general.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently putting the finishing touches on “Introverted Thoughts,” my third collection of poems.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
In the past I used Instagram and Facebook ads to promote my work. However, as of lately I’m exploring other alternatives.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors is to believe in yourself, consistently produce quality work, and learn how to market that quality work. Everything else will fall in place. Don’t give up.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“The strong is not the one who overcomes people with his strength, the strong is the one who controls himself while in a state of anger.” (Ahmed) It’s advice about employing patience when you’re angry. Because anger is the root cause of many mistakes we make in life. So if we can control anger, we can control making costly mistakes in life.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading “How to Market A Book: Overperform In a Crowded Market,” by Ricardo Fayet.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Broadening my knowledge of book marketing and sharing this knowledge with fellow writer’s is in the works.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Song of Solomon, The Bluest Eye, A Mercy, and
The DaVinci Code, by Dan Brown are the books I rather while stranded on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Lasana Philbert Website
Lasana Philbert Amazon Profile
Lasana Philbert’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account