Story & Lesson Highlights with Zane Frederick of North Phoenix

Zane Frederick shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Zane, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’ve been wandering through my twenties, in no particular direction. There has been immense learning and unlearning. It’s certainly been a journey getting exposure to what life has to offer and what decisions we make along the way. Cause and effect. I can be a very curious person and wander about, especially in a time of self discovery. Wandering has always led me on a path anyways, so in these times I trust myself and the universe that I’ll be back on a track when life calls for it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Zane Frederick and I’m a poet and author of four full length poetry collections. Writing really became an outlet for me in my teenage years and has followed me well into my adulthood. I’ve always been drawn to making a product out of feeling. There are so many emotions and experiences we go through in life, and to creatively express that sensation through art is powerful. I’ve found so much solace in writing and being able to make sense of human nature with a colorful line or lyric. My most recent collection, Tough and Tender, captures that essence the most. Truly understanding the spectrum of life and the universal feelings that make us human. Poetry brings connection and discovery, and it’s a space that will always be open to express in. I have endless Notes app scraps and poetry ideas in a Google Draft. I can’t navigate life without documenting it poetically.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Definitely my mother. I came out gay as a teen, but she saw me before I knew who I was becoming. As a little boy, she was very attentive and embraced all things I tried to be. I could tell she cared about making a worthwhile life for my siblings and I. We laugh, but that woman is my twin, cut from the same cloth, picked from the same tree.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it’d be “you are safe, you don’t need to brace for anything.” Growing up I was a very anxious and sensitive kid, so managing my emotions has been quite eye opening. Reminding my younger self that I have gotten through all my worst days, and my anxieties don’t have to dictate what kind of day I will have.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Having experienced both self publishing and traditional publishing, I’d say the greatest myth is that you need an agent or substantial social media presence to make an impact. Art and society are forever evolving. It has continuously proven that there are various ways in which to be successful with any artistic career. Remain passionate in your love for art, and remain open to network opportunities that come!

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when all my Maslow’s hierarchy of needs are met. Seriously. When I get to enjoy life and it’s most comforting time, it feels like relaxing into reality, just pure contentment. I’m a pretty simple man, not very spontaneous. I’ve really come to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. I think I feel most at peace when I know I’m taking advantage of the present moment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://zanefrederickwrites.wixsite.com/poem
• Instagram: @zanefrederickwrites

Image Credits
Cole Seefus
Afternoon Studios