‘Poets only sell books from car boots’ – Nana Asaase recounts disrespect in his poetry journey

Ghanaian poet Nana Asaase has shared his experiences with skepticism and doubt when he first began his poetry journey, including the assertion that writers and poets in Ghana could only sell their books from car boots. During an appearance on The Career Trail program on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, Asaase recounted a time when someone told him that "poets and Ghanaian writers all they do is sell books in a car boot," which he found discouraging.

Despite these discouraging comments, Asaase remained committed to his craft, stating that a voice within him kept him going. He recalled looking at himself in the mirror and thinking about quitting poetry to join his family's bakery, but he was ultimately guided by his belief in his path. Over the past 12 years, Asaase's dedication to poetry has led to unexpected opportunities, including performing for four presidents, both those who were alive and deceased, during the Fourth Republic.

Asaase attributes his perseverance to his faith in God and his consistent practice of his craft, emphasizing that there is no shortcut to success in the world of poetry. Now, after 12 years, Asaase is set to release his first book, which he plans to distribute worldwide in prominent settings, rather than selling it from a car boot.

He is also actively involved in mentoring other talents through his Sankofa Sessions, which include the Mental Pictures initiative, aiming to foster greater appreciation for literary arts, storytelling, oratory, and self-expression.