Ashley M. Jones is using her latest book to honor the Black women poets who helped guide her journey. The Birmingham, Alabama native reflects on their influence in What the Mirror Said, a collection that blends memoir, essays, and conversations about poetry.
Jones was named Alabama Poet Laureate in 2021 for a four-year term from 2022 to 2026. She was the first Black person and the youngest writer selected for the role in the program’s history.
Through her new work, Jones continues her mission of creating more space for Black voices in literature. She highlights the women whose words shaped her understanding of poetry, identity, and self-expression.
Ashley M. Jones’ Journey as Alabama’s First Black Poet Laureate
Ashley M. Jones has earned recognition as one of Alabama’s leading literary voices. She is a Birmingham native and a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Her appointment as Alabama Poet Laureate placed her at the center of the state’s literary community. The role also gave her a larger platform to support writers and encourage more people to connect with poetry.
Jones has used her position to show that poetry belongs to everyone. She believes creative expression should not feel limited to academic spaces or experts.
‘What the Mirror Said’ Honors Black Women Poets and Their Influence
Jones’ latest book, What the Mirror Said, explores the people and experiences that shaped her as a poet. The collection combines personal memories with reflections on writing and the power of language.
The book celebrates eight Black women poets who influenced Jones’ creative path. They include Phillis Wheatley (Peters), Gwendolyn Brooks, Lucille Clifton, Sonia Sanchez, Audre Lorde, Camille Dungy, Patricia Smith, and Rita Dove.
These poets represent more than literary figures. Jones describes them as teachers and guides who helped create space for future generations of Black women writers.
Black Women Poets Who Inspired Ashley M. Jones’ Literary Voice
Jones explains that her connection to poetry started early. She was inspired by writers such as Eloise Greenfield, whose work introduced her to the possibilities of poetry.
The Black women poets featured in What the Mirror Said became important voices in her development. Their writing helped her understand culture, identity, feminism, and personal freedom.
Jones writes about the importance of their contributions. She shares that, “Black women make everything possible. Always have. Always will. Everything I know about survival and light, I know from Black women.”
How Ashley M. Jones Is Making Poetry More Accessible
Beyond celebrating influential poets, Jones wants readers to see poetry differently. She believes poems should not feel confusing or reserved for scholars.
What the Mirror Said presents poetry as a conversation. Jones invites everyday readers to explore emotions, memories, and personal experiences through literature.
She challenges the idea that poetry must stay inside traditional academic spaces. Instead, she shows that powerful writing can connect with people from all backgrounds.
Poetry as a Tool for Identity, Healing, and Connection
For Jones, poetry offers more than artistic expression. She sees it as a way for people to discover themselves and understand their experiences.
She describes poems as mirrors that can reveal hidden parts of who we are. Through her writing, Jones encourages readers to embrace reflection and vulnerability.
Her work also comes at a time when many Black writers and stories face challenges around visibility and recognition. Through her book, Jones helps preserve the voices of Black women poets.
Ashley M. Jones Continues Building Space for Future Black Writers
What the Mirror Said is both a tribute and a message of encouragement. Jones shows how the work of earlier generations can inspire new creators.
By highlighting Black women poets, she keeps their stories present for future readers. She also reminds young writers that their voices have value.
As Alabama’s first Black Poet Laureate, Jones continues using literature to create connection, representation, and opportunity. Her work reflects the lasting power of poetry and the women who helped shape her voice.
