“I wonder what his last meal was so I don’t eat there?”
Chris Smith
Christopher A. Smith is a freelance writer and poet who is a native of New York City, and is proud to call Southeast Queens home. He has self-published three books of poetry – lovestoned, wife of the heart & penny candy rhythms. He graduated from Francis Lewis High School and went on to Hofstra University. Christopher has performed at various venues in New York City and Washington D.C., and has been fortunate enough to have been featured in different online journals such as SunDog Lit. Having grown up in Southeast Queens is what fortifies his writing voice and the imagery and messages he chooses to convey within his work. He can be found online at @infinitewords (Twitter) and @linden228 (Instagram).
Connection to SEQ: My connection to Southeast Queens is one that is embedded within my spirit and in my flesh. It's home to me, the place that I was born and raised. It remains home to me today, as I can picture living most other places in this country and around the globe, but it wouldn't have the same pull as being from Cambria Heights. It's an oasis that guarantees a respite and reflection in a city that at times might not have the grace to offer one or the other to you. Growing up in Southeast Queens taught me a lot. It gave me an inner sense of calm that's personified in its blocks and avenues. It gives me a pride in working hard and presenting my best self to the world. And for that, I have nothing but love for my neighborhood and this section of the greatest city in the world.
