Joshua Agholor Omeke, known by his pen names Joshua Omeke or J.A. Omeke, has released his latest literary creation, titled “Joe’s Collectanea”. Born into a family that held a deep appreciation for arts and culture, Joshua was nurtured in an environment that fostered his development as a writer.
Inspired by Harper Lee’s iconic work “To Kill a Mockingbird”, Joshua embarked on a journey to bring the stories residing in his mind to life, be it through poetry, prose, short stories, or fiction.
This marks Joshua’s seventh published book, having previously authored six self-development books. While he garnered interest from renowned publishing houses like Austin Macaulay Press in the UK and Atmosphere Press in America, Joshua made a deliberate choice to shift his focus towards exploring the realms of literature. He sought to carve a distinct niche for himself, steering away from being confined to the category of self-help writing.
In “Joe’s Collectanea”, Joshua presents a collection of his poignant poems, aptly named after the endearing nickname “Joe” associated with individuals bearing his name. The book promises to be a captivating journey through a diverse array of subjects, woven together by Joshua’s evocative narrative style. Joe’s collectanea is an enigmatic portfolio of the writers collective thoughts on diverse subject ranging from topics on diversity into preferences in decision making, and story telling just like the provocative poem titled a friend of mine. Supposedly presented by the writer as an approach to confront his lover and a friend who find it humiliating to present a coloured boy as their new found love. Moving into other topics, Joshua also initiated the thoughts of longing for home in the piece Flies of wilderness and A coloured dream. Both masterpiece presents a migrant proposed with a mission for greener pastures but suddenly desires to return home as the struggles overlap the dreams but eventually remembered he left for a purpose he must return with the result, the work seems like a pat to his own back. And other subject matters involved. In tenths of books I selectively review monthly, Joe’s Collectanea has proven Joshua’s eloquence in formulating poetry. I may assume he compiled this work over a few years because of the sudden shift in emotions and presentation of each work. I have read the collectanea and would appreciate if much presentations of poetry are available in the market of today.
When asked about his writing style, Joshua describes it as a “narrative theme”, a unique approach that allows readers to vividly envision the worlds he crafts. Through his masterful use of language, Joshua creates a tapestry of imagery that engages and captivates his audience.
Reflecting on the challenges he’s faced as an author, Joshua recalls an incident where a poem he submitted for publication received constructive criticism. While the editor commended his work, Joshua was encouraged to read it aloud to better align with their specific standards. The experience served as a reminder of the subjective nature of art and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives.
Among the many lines penned in “Joe’s Collectanea”, Joshua holds a special fondness for the poignant verse, “They said time waits for no man but we are spirits”, a sentiment echoed in his poems “Composure” and “Tommy, my watch”. I for hand, is amazed at other poems in the collectanea, some of which were “Danilo the farm boy” typically relates to everyone engaged in the perpetual task they have become accustomed at their place of work. Followed by “The Plague In Our Waves” that gives an insight on the typical experience of every individual upon the unfortunate commencement of lockdown. Suddenly humanity was struck with redefinition of what matters in life, and being overwhelmed by an island of thoughts and an ocean of questions in expectations of when the exit of the Covid-19 was to be announced so lessons learned could be reproduced in the new world we were all forced to live in.
Intriguingly, Joshua reveals that he doesn’t confine himself to a single persona in his writing. He draws on a myriad of perspectives, showcasing his versatility as a storyteller. In his own words, “The skill in effective writing is your ability to tell a story from a perspective different from your background or what you have been exposed to.” This radiates the efficiency of raw talent as an individual, he sparks memories of Cyprian Ekwensi, in terms of how narratively his works appear to be. Joshua could be compared to him simply because Cyprian was recognised domestically and internationally in narrative writing as a Nigerian and both writers show in-depth knowledge in storytelling.
As for his role model, Joshua looks up to Jesus Christ for his profound impact on the world through his spoken words, poems, and storytelling that now reflects as the New Testament section of the Holy Bible. Joshua has displayed his talent in poetry and spoken words. Might be intriguing to lay hands on any fiction Joshua may in later years produce.
In a resounding call for collaboration, Joshua expresses his openness to partnering with fellow writers, arts and culture organizations, and individuals passionate about championing ethnic minorities in the art industry. He envisions a collective effort to elevate Africa and other underrepresented communities in the global artistic landscape.