Inside My Diary: Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression
Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression is one of my two debut poetry collections, and it became the #2 Top New Release on Amazon, following right behind The Onslaught of the -Isms: Original Poetry on Oppression. Both books are deeply personal and vulnerable, but Taking Back My Light sits closer to a coming-of-age memoir.
Where The Onslaught of the -Isms draws from stories I witnessed and experienced across many different moments in my life, this collection gives readers an inside look into the actual pages of my diary, including photocopies of journal entries I wrote as early as elementary school.
Through them, you'll walk with me from the bullying that started when I was just five years old, through the exclusion, social rejection, invisibility, and isolation that followed me all the way through high school, and into the depression that grew out of it.
The poetic memories also confront something bigger than my own story: the damaging messages young people absorb from teachers, students, media, and entertainment—messages that shape how they see themselves and the world around them long before many of them have the awareness, discernment, courage, and empowerment to push back.
Why I Wrote Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression
From the Preface of Taking Back My Light:
“It saddens and disappoints me when I see so little compassion extended to those who are depressed or struggling with suicidal thoughts.
These poems are deeply personal and sometimes painful for me to revisit, yet I am including them for two reasons: first, to show those who are depressed that I have been there, and that if I can fully heal and rise above it, so can you; and second, to inspire those who have never experienced depression to approach others with empathy, rather than judgment, bullying, or indifference toward those who have lost faith in themselves, their environment, or their future.
I also hope this work serves as a reminder to parents, educators, and other adults not to underestimate the pressures students face and the problematic messaging they are given. Additionally, I want students themselves not to sacrifice their well-being in pursuit of academic achievement or social acceptance, because even a perfect grade can only get you so far, and the rejection or exclusion you may experience does not define your worth, your value, or what you deserve. Your mental and physical health are what you rely on every single day to survive, function, and thrive in this world, and without that foundation, nothing else can truly hold.”
“The Mask” Poem from Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression
When I performed "The Mask" in my mom's and my debut poetic narrative theater performance, it was one of the poems that women resonated with most, especially women of color who have faced misogynoir and other intersectional forms of oppression. One woman recalled her moments of dissociation and felt heard and seen by my poem. Another remarked that my poetic performance helped her realize that wearing the mask was a choice, and that she had the freedom to choose differently.
Has your light ever been taken or obscured by having to constantly wear a mask to be accepted, tolerated, and get through the day—not to mention the emotional exhaustion that comes with knowing your authenticity and vulnerability would be rejected, ridiculed, or ignored in certain spaces?
Experience this animated video excerpt from "The Mask," found in the "Sorrow" chapter of Taking Back My Light.
What Readers Are Saying About Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression
One reviewer, a parent, wrote that the book moved her in ways she didn't expect:
"I've spent my life trying to love, protect, and guide my children through the hard moments, and this book touched my heart in a way I didn't expect. Taking Back My Light is honest, vulnerable, and reminds us that healing is possible, even after life's deepest hurts. As a parent, it gave me hope, not just for my children, but for everyone who at times feels isolated and alone."
One young woman shared how relatable this coming-of-age memoir is:
“This book is more than poetry, it is a poetic biography. Its brilliant use of word play and imagery transports you into the author's memories. Her vulnerability is refreshing and relatable. It lets you know that you are not alone. It reads as a coming-of-age story which keeps the interest of the reader, while taking them on a journey along with the writer. It's heart-wrenching, it's unfiltered, it's authentic. There aren't many books like it, and you'll be glad you picked it up. Definitely a must-buy!”
Another woman shared how this was helpful in processing her trauma:
“What a beautiful and inspiring book that invites all of us to grapple with our trauma and embrace our inner light—a light that all of us possess but which often feels trapped under the weight of sorrow, guilt, and sometimes despair! I was initially captivated by the title, but I am more amazed by thoughtful reflection that the author undertook to share her life experiences through poetry. I highly, highly recommend checking out this book as it will inspire you to reclaim your inner light as well.”
The response at my live poetry readings and Q&As has been just as moving. Parents and educators in the audience said again and again that these poems belong in schools:
"This is important poetry for mentoring other young children too, who feel this kind of stress in school. It's a sensitive reveal at our history because it's continuous even into adulthood."
"Although Radiance's story is unique to her, I'm afraid that this is what the majority of Black children experience in these schools and other similar places."
Others spoke to the courage it took to share something this personal:
"Radiance is a brilliant writer, and it's so important to find the arts to get the weight off of injustice. I know it's difficult and continuous pain. Keep doing the work of healing."
"I love your courage in sharing your vulnerability with your words. Creativity is like giving birth. Thank you!"
"Thank you for generously sharing your light, your wisdom, and your love with all of us. We are deeply grateful.”
Order Your Copy
You can learn more about Taking Back My Light: Original Poetry on Isolation and Depression and The Onslaught of the -Isms: Original Poetry on Oppression at RadianceTalley.com/books, or order your copy directly on Amazon today.
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