Meet Charlotte Simon-Rowson

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Charlotte Simon-Rowson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Charlotte, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

My optimism comes from survival, from knowing that I have endured deep grief, loss, and moments when I did not think I would make it, but I did. It stems from my mother’s resilience, who embodied love, wisdom, and strength despite the struggles. Additionally, it arises from gratitude, as I honor my mother’s legacy and understand that even in pain, there is purpose. My optimism isn’t about ignoring hardship; it’s about accepting it while still choosing to believe in something greater—healing, faith, and love.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a writer and a poet whose work is deeply rooted in storytelling, healing, and legacy. My writing explores themes of grief, gratitude, but, most importantly resilience, centering the voices and experiences of Black and Brown women, including my own. Through my words, I honor the past while creating space for the future—where our stories are told with honesty and power.
I am currently involved in several writing and poetry anthologies, as well as a deeply personal book titled “Roses for Betty.” This book is a tribute to my mother’s life, exploring her journey from childhood to adulthood and the complexities of our mother-daughter relationship. It is a story of love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child, a bond that shapes us in ways both seen and unseen.
Additionally, I am participating in a project, with other authors, seven-page legacy piece for Black and Brown women , beginning with the words “I leave you love”. This piece speaks to survival, overcoming suicide, and embracing life despite the weight of grief. Writing, for me, is not just an art form—it is a way to give voice to the silenced, transform pain into beauty, and ensure that our stories are never forgotten.
With upcoming poetry and anthology contributions, I am thrilled to continue sharing my work and increasing my reach. My journey as a writer is still unfolding, and I look forward to bringing stories to life, not just for myself but for others, to know and believe in the fulfillment of our stories.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as a writer and a poet are resilience, authenticity, and intentionality.
Resilience has allowed me to keep writing, even in the face of grief and life’s trials. Writing has been my way of processing loss, honoring love, and reclaiming my voice; I always had a voice, but the reclamation is different. For those just beginning their journey, I encourage you to keep going and pressing, especially in difficult moments.
Growth happens when you push through uncertainty and continue creating, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Authenticity gives my work its power. I’ve learned that my words resonate most when they come from a place of truth. No matter what you write—poetry, personal stories, or reflections—stay true to you, to your voice. The more honest you are, the more your work will connect with others. Your voice is unique; trust it.
Intentionality has shaped the way I approach my writings. I don’t just write to fill pages—I write with purpose, whether it’s to heal or inspire. If you’re just starting, take time to set clear intentions for your work. Ask yourself: Why do I write? Who am I writing for? Let those answers guide you. Also, don’t try to compare your writing to anyone else.
Write fearlessly, be patient with yourself, and trust your voice. Your story matters, and the world needs to hear it.

We’ve all got limited resources, time, energy, focus etc – so if you had to choose between going all in on your strengths or working on areas where you aren’t as strong, what would you choose?

I believe in leaning into your strengths while still allowing room for growth. Our strengths are what set us apart, and when we fully embrace them, we create our most impactful work. At the same time, I think it’s important to improve in areas where we may not feel as strong, unfortunately, growth often happens in those uncomfortable spaces.
For me, writing has always been my strength. It’s where I feel most at home, where my emotions and experiences come to life on the page. But there was a time when I struggled with sharing my work publicly. I feared how my words would be received, however, I came to realize that my writing wasn’t just for me; that this was a gift and it was meant to be shared, to resonate, and to create space for others to see themselves. So, I focused on putting my truth out into the world, whether through poetry, anthologies, or personal storytelling.
While it’s important to embrace and refine our strengths, we can’t ignore the areas where we feel less positive. Often, it’s those very areas that offer the most potential for growth. Balance is essential—respect your gifts which GOD has given you but also be open to stepping outside of your comfort zone. The challenges you face can be the ones that help you evolve and reach new heights in your work.
Hence, my advice is simple, hone in on what makes you unique, but don’t shy away from growth. The more you push yourself, the more powerful your journey can become.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.simonsayswritenow.com
• Instagram: chars_webofartistry
• Facebook: Charlotte Simon
• Other: Substack
  @charlottesimon1