As the grandson of an English teacher, Adonis Richards has always had a passion for literature. He soon discovered that storytelling could be channeled through poetry.
He wrote his first poem for a hip-hop showcase while a senior at SUNY Potsdam. Now 31, he continues to write poetry on a regular basis and is the author of three collections: “Confessions of a Hopeless Creative,” “Reflections of a Hopeless Creative,” and “The Quarantine Chronicles.”
Adonis Richards, Schenectady's first poet laureate.
He also performs spoken-word poetry at public events.
“I write a lot, mostly when my mind comes to it,” said Richards, program coordinator in the Office of Intercultural Affairs. “Not all of it is poetry.”
Richards’ talents have led him to be selected as the city of Schenectady’s first poet laureate. He was among four candidates who applied for the two-year unpaid position. A committee comprised of community members and educators were impressed by his body of work.
“The city is going to be in store for a new voice to capture some of the events and inspire and also provide awareness,” City Councilman Carl Williams told the Daily Gazette. “I think that’s truly what the city could use at this time.”
As poet laureate, Richards is required to facilitate four literary events and four educational programs in collaboration with the city school district and local colleges.
That is a natural fit for Richards, who is the founder of Lucid Writers, a creative writing organization that works with local students and youth groups.
So, what type of poetry does Richards prefer?
“I don’t have a favorite,” said Richards, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in educational leadership at St. Bonaventure University. “I like haikus, free verse and sonnets. Just don’t ask me to write a rondeau redoublé.”
In his new role as poet laureate, Richards hopes to inspire and impact change through literacy, social and emotional learning (SEL), poetry and storytelling.
“I hope to continue the work Union does to bridge the gap between us and the Schenectady community as well as develop programming that teaches the importance of poetry and literacy.”
