What's the most critically overrated book you've ever read?
Probably Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness".
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Latest answers from Josie Pickens
I have followed you for some time and i love your tweets. I would like to know what has helped you the most when it comes to writing?
As far as writing, talent is great (and relative). Reading other writers and practicing the craft everyday is the key to becoming a better writer. I read a lot, but should be writing more. Teaching composition also helps me immensely as a writer. Old school outlining, to ensure clear and concise argument, is a lost art. SO MUCH STUFF!!!
You have the calmest and most radiant spirit. Keep being awesome.
Thank you! I appreciate that.
Hey there! First off, I love your tweets and contributions to Ebony. Secondly, I'm about to be 25 and I want to make more Black women friends my own age. I know that adults have to join activities and go to social events to make friends but I'm struggling. Any advice?
Thank you! I had a similar experience post divorce and starting over. First, I figured out what I liked (for me it was heavily an art and/or hip hop scene) and I looked for related events. I'd attend them solo and ease my way into conversations with interesting people I'd see there. I also connected with like minded folk via social media. The key is to stay natural and authentic so people don't feel like you're selling yourself. You'll find your tribe. I promise.
I keep failing, people keep laughing at me. It's almost like i can't do anything right. No matter how hard i try not to be shy, people keep saying that i'm extremely shy. I don't have male friends, i for a long time now haven't been asked out by any guy...what should i do?
There are many possible answers to your dilemma, but it sounds like you should begin with addressing your thinking/feelings about yourself and your ability to date/attract a date. We can chat more about it if you email me at jomopickens@gmail.com
I was wondering what ororganizations I could join to help build the black community in Texas? I'm a young man who wants to tackle issues black men and women are facing. Do you have any advice?
It depends on where you'll be based. I'm in Houston and can give you tons of info for this city. Email me: jomopickens@gmail.com
what can I do to make myself more "girly" or into keeping myself "on point"? I am a tom boy and sometimes I feel like it's just not in me to be dolled up and manicured 24/7.
I think the first step is figuring out what you like. In the age of Pinterest and Instagram you can find a personal style that is just girly enough. Find fashion bloggers and looks you like and experiment. Enlist the help of friends you find chic and fashionable. I think this is a great start.
Have you ever loved someone you have not met?
Yes. Once. Technology is a wonderful thing.
What are you wearing right now?
Sheets.
I'm dating a man who is madly in love with me, wants to get married, plan our lives around each other, etc. I know that I should feel over the moon about all of this, but something just feels....off. I don't know what it is, but I jut can't reciprocate his feelings as strongly! Am I being silly?
You most definitely are not being silly. Always go with your gut. Furthermore, I can admit that I married a man I should have probably only dated because he was madly in love with me and wanted to get married. I was taught that when a man proposes marriage, and treats you well, you accept. Of course, the marriage ended because the passion and desire needed to carry a marriage through the rough spots were missing. It matters. Believe me.
Been with my bf for 5 months. I've expressed that im unhappy with my bf a couple times over the last month. Recently it manifested into the worst argument we've ever had, and now, even though we say were going to work on it, no effort is coming from him. How long should I wait for things to change?
The question is: what is making you unhappy and can that unhappiness be cured by someone other than you. Also, how are you addressing the issues with your bf? Are you communicating about the action, and not how the action makes you feel? If your issue, for instance, is that your bf doesn't spend enough time with you, are you expressing also that spending time with him makes you feel special and loved, that such time together is one of your love language. Also, people don't respond to being criticized and chastised, and not getting what we want during periods of a relationship is a reality that we never talk about. In all, go with your gut. If you are being vulnerable and loving in your requests and he's ignoring you, he might not be as invested as you'll need him to be to make it work long term.