Meet Summer Creative Writing Academy Visiting Writer Cory "Bess Kepp" Cofer!
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Cory "Besskepp" Cofer blends originality and rich heritage into his writings and performances. Giving a classic face to his urban-inspired works, Cofer has a distinct gift for deconstructing the complex issues faced by many. An HBO Def Poet, member of two National Poetry Slam Teams and a Special Education Teacher, Cofer's other accomplishments include performing and conducting poetry workshops at colleges and universities
nationally and having his Hip Hop Theater play, Homeless Beat-boxer featured at the Red Cat Theater at Disney Hall. He is co-founder of A Mic & Dim Lights, a poetry reading in Pomona, Ca in its 18th year. |
Cory Cofer
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5 Questions for Cory Cofer
When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?
I first knew I wanted to be a writer at 10 years old when I stole my brother's raps and would rewrite them as if I wrote them. I eventually began writing my own rhymes which evolved into poems.
Who are your writer/teacher influences?
My influence was Mr. Hamilton, my creative writing teacher when I was a junior in High School. The writing activities he would have us do were fun. The activities helped to broaden my scope on what to write about.
What do you think the role of the writer is or should be in today's society?
The role of a writer should be to be honest and true to the craft, within given guidelines (if any), and also pushing limits.
What are your suggestions for beginners who want to become writers?
Challenge yourself. Write when you do not feel like it. Journal often. Your writing is your story. Own it, celebrate, and when comfortable, share it.
If you could meet and chill out with 1 writer, living or dead, who would that be and why?
Octavia Butler! She was a black woman who began writing science fiction in the 70s. I'd love to pick her brain on overcoming obstacles and blazing her own trail. (Editor Note: Octavia Butler is a PCC Alumna!)
I first knew I wanted to be a writer at 10 years old when I stole my brother's raps and would rewrite them as if I wrote them. I eventually began writing my own rhymes which evolved into poems.
Who are your writer/teacher influences?
My influence was Mr. Hamilton, my creative writing teacher when I was a junior in High School. The writing activities he would have us do were fun. The activities helped to broaden my scope on what to write about.
What do you think the role of the writer is or should be in today's society?
The role of a writer should be to be honest and true to the craft, within given guidelines (if any), and also pushing limits.
What are your suggestions for beginners who want to become writers?
Challenge yourself. Write when you do not feel like it. Journal often. Your writing is your story. Own it, celebrate, and when comfortable, share it.
If you could meet and chill out with 1 writer, living or dead, who would that be and why?
Octavia Butler! She was a black woman who began writing science fiction in the 70s. I'd love to pick her brain on overcoming obstacles and blazing her own trail. (Editor Note: Octavia Butler is a PCC Alumna!)