Interview with poet, Thomas McRae: Talking about his life and his new poetry book, ‘Lyrical Revelations’.

Hello Thomas! Tell me a bit about yourself…Where do you live? How old are you? What kind of work do you do? 

 Hello! My name is Thomas McRae. I’m a poet, author and writer. I recently bought a beautiful one bedroom Co-op apartment in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY. I’m 41 years old, single, no kids or married but looking forward to having a family and a foundation filled with love, joy and understanding. I have worked for the New York City Housing Authority Emergency Service Department for over 21 years of my life. I’m a helper for the maintenance man. I used to work and live in Far Rockaway. Queens, NY but there was an ongoing problem with a certain individual that was making the work place toxic and unsettling for me. Through the Grace of God I found peace and salvation in my new home and work place situation.

Why and when did you start writing poetry?

Since I was a kid, poetry has been my way to express myself creatively. I have a lot to say and love expressing it in a positive and constructive way.

What kind of poetry appeals to you?

 It varies from time to time. I like different poets, poetry structures and styles. But I’m really loving my poems in my book, ‘Lyrical Revelations’ because it’s some of my best work, especially considering I haven’t written anything in a while.

What topics inspire you to write poetry?

 Everything and anything, from life experience, family and friends. The news, music, my job and people in general.

 Some of the poems in, ‘Lyrical Revelations’ might be considered by some people as controversial. What would you say to them?

 I say, Doctor Martin Luther King Jr was considered controversial because he spoke against America’s injustice towards Negroes and other people of color. People considered Jesus Christ controversial because he wanted to teach God’s vision, wisdom and understanding. My point is this… my poetry is inspired by my personal views but also influenced by moral and biblical facts. If I’m controversial, then why is Governor Ron Desantis still in office, or why isn’t Rudy Giuliani and Donald Trump already in jail for all the controversy they both have been apart of ? The same applies to Joe Biden and several of these Americans politicians we have and let’s not forget the corruption in law enforcement as well. My poetry is really direct, very honest and humble plus true.

Where did you get the title and cover for the book? 

The title was just me and my friend Jessica Starks throwing ideas back and forth. The cover was inspired by my very last poetry book, ‘Fatal Impact’. I gave Jessica that book and she did her thing with a new cover and that’s how the ‘Lyrical Revelations’ cover became a reality.

I hear you have been getting into the area of merchandise. Can you tell me more about that?

 I just decided to try and expand and not be boxed in to other’s standards and beliefs. I’m currently trying to get the coffee mugs into different independent book stores and gift shops plus possibly Michael’s craft store.

Example of merchandise

Example of merchandise

Do you have any hobbies / pastimes?

 Listening to music, watching TV and movies, YouTube, being with family and friends, looking for love and loving myself and working on my lyrical artistic craft and masterpiece.

What kind of music do you enjoy?

Old school R&B hip hop, pop music rock, country plus gospel.

Do you have any new projects in mind after this?

Working with Eber and Wein Publishing to put out another poetry book after ‘Lyrical Revelations’. After that I will see.

Also I want to acknowledge several very important people in my life who have been nothing but loving and supportive, so please be patient with me.

First I want to acknowledge and thank God for giving me a talent like no other, a heart who loves everyone even if I don’t agree with everything they say or do.

My parents Sylvia A McRae and Marshall Edward McRae Senior for giving me structure, teaching me values, showing me how to love myself and that when all else fails you believe in God and stay true to your heart.

My extended family, Khalil Abdus Sabuur, Nekema Moore, Beverly Weathers ,Patricia May,  Damon Adams, Rhina Alcantara, Rastislav Kovalcik, Vinson McCrae Jr and last but not least Virginia Bell and my great Aunt Mother Nelly. I want to thank you all for being positive and truly amazing and wonderful people. Your love is my beacon of hope and your wisdom is founded by God’s undeniable spirit and sincerity. I wish each and everyone of you unconditional happiness and lifelong love.

And to you the phenomenal, Eileen Moynihan, thank you so much for your generosity and extraordinary kindness. You are a treasure every author will cherish and appreciate because I know I definitely do. Thank you.

Thankyou too, Thomas.

Thomas’s book, ‘Lyrical Revelations’ can be bought on Amazon.com on this link https://www.amazon.com/Lyrical-Revelations-Thomas-McRae/dp/B0CXKZBKZG/

And at Barnes and Noble on this link https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lyrical-revelations-thomas-mcrae/1145034236

And in many other places.