Let’s Talk 10: Dasan Ahanu
Illustration by Kiara Sanders
Poet, community leader and co-founder of Black Poetry Theater, Dasan Ahanu, kicks off September with his perspectives:
Who makes you laugh? I’ve always been an observer. I find so many reasons to
laugh when I am out and about around people. From little children to adults, there are
so many funny moments we take for granted and overlook.
What’s the perfect evening? For me, it’s good food with good company, then live
music. I love to see and hear musicians play. I love to eat. I enjoy good company.
Fiction or nonfiction? Fiction. I grew up reading mystery and fantasy novels. My
favorites were Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock
Holmes.
What makes a good mayor? I believe that a good mayor understands how to listen. It is
important to listen to those who are actively engaging with the community, day in and
day out. It is also important for the mayor to make use of the expertise around them. A
good mayor operates with a solid sense of equity. The position is a public service to a whole
community, not a sector of the community. A good mayor must have integrity and creativity.
Favorite destination? I am not a fan of cold weather. I have a few favorite US cities I like
to visit between April and September. I love Denver, Boston, Southern California and the
Bay Area. I also love Toronto, Canada.
What’s the meaning of life? To live with intention, to be authentically present,, and to
always know you are worthy of joy.
Best time of the day to write a poem? Whenever you can steal some time to capture the
words.
What’s outdated? Benign neglect.
Don’t stop_______? Don’t stop asking questions.
What’s love? A true and unconditional feeling of care, understanding, consideration and
compassion.
Dasan’s New Book is Out Now:
