Cassandra Blondin-Burt has officially embraced her identity as a published author, though she admits it still feels a bit surreal. “I've been calling myself an author more recently," she shares, crediting the encouragement she has received from others for this newfound confidence.

In the fall of last year, Blondin-Burt released her debut book, *Love Letters to Divided Nations*, a compelling long-form poem that delves into intimate themes, many of which reflect her Dene heritage. “Seeing it come out in print and sitting on a bookshelf is surreal,” she says. “It affirms a lot of the work that many creators are doing right now, as we strive for change and evolution in the world.”

Describing her book as “provocative,” she highlights that while feedback has been largely positive, it sometimes draws criticism due to its bold assertions linking the exploitation of land with the disrespect of the female body. “I relate land and the female body in the book,” she explains. “Our exploitation of land mirrors how we exploit the sacred feminine and our own bodies, regardless of gender.” Despite the tough themes, one of the most touching responses she received came from a mother who wanted to inspire her daughter with examples of strong Indigenous womanhood.

Initially, Blondin-Burt considered softening the poem’s more daring lines due to concerns about backlash. She ultimately chose to preserve its authenticity, realizing that compromising her voice would perpetuate the very silencing she seeks to challenge. “If I listened to any of the criticisms about the provocative nature, I'd be creating a metaphor for our bodies not being respected as sacred,” she stated.

Reflecting on the writing process, Blondin-Burt describes overcoming periods of self-doubt and the immense courage it took to share her voice. “It felt daring and bold. I was young, and I thought, who am I to be opinionated?” Yet, once she began, the words flowed through her, transforming from mere thoughts to a living narrative that readers can now engage with. “The story is no longer just in my imagination; it has legs of its own and is going to walk,” she enthused.

As she continues to grow as a creator, new projects are on the horizon, including one that explores the art of quilting, a craft steeped in tradition and cultural expression. Encouraging fellow Indigenous creators to follow their passions, Blondin-Burt acknowledges the omnipresence of fear in the creative process. “Don’t let fear drive your creative vehicle,” she advises. “Instead, see fear as your inner child that needs reassurance. You can acknowledge fear’s presence without allowing it to take control.”

*Cassandra Blondin-Burt's Love Letters to Divided Nations* is available for purchase at Yellowknife Books and online, a must-read for those interested in the intersection of art, identity, and the pressing issues of our time. Don't miss out on discovering the profound insights of this emerging voice in literature!