Words for Weary Wanderers: Victoria Gehman on Poetry, Healing, and Nature

In this interview, we dive into the inspiring journey of poet and social worker, Victoria Gehman, whose work explores themes of trauma healing, mental health, and the calming embrace of nature. From her early experiences as a writer to the emotional depth of her most recent poetry collection, Words for Weary Wanderers, Victoria shares how poetry became both a personal refuge and a powerful tool for connection. Her honest reflections on her writing process, the struggles of being an indie poet in today's digital world, and the healing power of words provide a glimpse into the heart of an artist who truly believes in the transformative power of poetry.

Q: Hi Victoria! Tell us, when did you start writing poetry? How did you get into it?

A: I’ve always been a writer—pretty much since the time I could hold a pen. It wasn’t until high school that I began to enjoy poetry. (I never really liked it in school because the poems in the textbooks were confusing. Except for Edgar Allan Poe—I loved him lol).

But once I realized how broad poetry is and how much creative freedom there is within it, I began to try my hand at it. I realized poetry really helped me to process deep pain and trauma I otherwise had a difficult time voicing. So, I began writing poetry to help my

hurting heart heal. I always dreamed of being an author but never imagined it would be in the poetry genre. However, I believed the words I was writing held value and spoke

important truths that could help others who are hurting and encourage them on their own healing journeys.

Q: That's amazing. I also was a big Poe fan in high school. You explore themes of trauma healing, mental health, and nature in your poetry. What drew you to those topics?

A: Those topics are all close to my heart because of my own experiences. I have struggled with my mental health all my life, and I have also experienced trauma that has greatly impacted me. Poetry helps me to process and heal, while also letting others know they are not alone. I am also a social worker, so themes of mental health, trauma, etc. are things I am passionate about and have a lot of education around/experience with. I also incorporate a lot of nature-themed poems into my books because nature is where I feel most alive and at peace.

Q: Can you share a poem that you're particularly proud of and explain why it resonates with you?

A: Oh, goodness. That’s a hard one. I have too many favorites, but I will share one of my

favorite nature-themed poems from my most recent book:

Life I Was Made For

When the gray of these walls is all I can see,

The weight of this world crushes me.

No longer willing to pay that price,

The woods became my paradise.

The only high I chase

Is the feeling of warm sun on my face.

I’m addicted to the peace that comes from floating on a lake.

Each weekend, these moments I embrace.

And all week long, I dream

Of the next time I get to walk alongside a stream.

Spending time outdoors has never felt like a chore –

This is the life I was made for.

Q: I love this so much and feel like i'm walking around outdoors as I read it. Thank you for that! What is your typical writing process like? Do you have a specific routine or approach?

A: I typically get inspired randomly. I have jotted down many of my poems in the middle of everyday life and then edit them at a later time, when I have the chance to actually sit

down and focus. However, if I’m experiencing writer's block, I will often do a few things

to get myself inspired:

-take a walk/sit and appreciate nature, allowing it to inspire me

-read poetry by other poets I admire

-utilize prompts

-make sure I have a cozy and organized work environment.

Q: What do you believe is the power of poetry in today's world?

A: I believe poetry gives us a unique ability to connect with people. Poetry is often very

vulnerable, but it is in this vulnerability that we can connect. There are so many people in the world who feel alone in their struggles, but poetry can help bridge the gap and show how we are more alike than we may realize.

Q: I completely agree. What are the challenges of being a poet in the current literary landscape?

A: We live in a time where there is just so much information—all readily available, right at our fingertips. While this is beautiful in some ways, it can also make it challenging to

find our target audience. People are overwhelmed with content all the time and,

especially as indie author, it can feel like we are drowning in a sea of other

authors/creatives who are more well-known and successful. It can be hard not to compare ourselves to others we follow on social media. I think the most important thing to remember is to stay authentic and true to yourself in your writing.

Q: How has writing poetry impacted your life personally?

A: Poetry has been a lifeline for me during so many difficult periods in my life where I did not think I could continue on. I have also connected with so many amazing humans and have found such incredible community within the poetry community.

Q: Tell us about your most recent book or a WIP.

A: My most recent book came out in September and is entitled Words for Weary Wanderers.

It is for those who are feeling weary and weighted down by life. In the first half of the

book, I explore themes of chronic illness and mental health in a raw and authentic way,

sharing my own experiences with the goal of making readers feel seen and validated. In

the second half of the book, I share poems about hope and nature’s healing powers.

Q: It was a great book! You all go check it out. Lastly, why is art history important today?

A: Art history shows us how art has changed over the years, while also showing us common themes that we can still connect with today. I think it’s helpful to learn about what art has looked like during different time periods and cultures and to see ourselves within art that we may not have resonated with had we not learned any of the history behind it.

Thank you for these wonderful responses and allowing us to get to know you better, Victoria. Thank you for your art and vulnerability! Please check out Victoria's work and follow along with her journey.