Poet Winnie Nantongo says she is on a mission to harness the power of poetry and storytelling to advocate for crucial societal issues. Her second book Dining with the Enemy, published in September 2023 through which Nantongo seeks to address pressing concerns such as mental health, justice, and human dignity.

“I use this medium of poetry to tackle critical issues like mental health and oppression. And while most times I write for myself, I know there are many voices out there looking for a voice that echoes theirs.” Nantongo says.

Mental Health Advocacy

In this new collection, Nantongo’s poems delve deep into the human psyche. The pieces explore themes of love, heartbreak, struggle, and resilience. It is through these poems that she provides a window into the often tumultuous terrain of mental health. The Poet says that she believes by sharing her own experiences and emotions, this can help in destigmatizing mental health issues and encourage even other people to not be afraid of opening up.

Justice and Human Dignity

Dining with the Enemy is not just a collection of beautiful verses; this book is a powerful instrument of social commentary. The author’s words explore the nuances of justice and human dignity. Nantongo confronts issues of betrayal, identity, and societal expectations, urging readers to question the status quo and champion the cause of justice and human rights. Through her storytelling, Nantongo seeks to empower individuals to stand up for their rights and the rights of others.

Winnie Nantongo’s dedication to using her passion for poetry and storytelling for advocacy is not limited to only this collection. Her previous work, The Lover and Her Human, also touched on themes of love, growth, and identity. Now, with Dining with the Enemy, she expands her artistic horizons to encompass even more critical topics.

“I believe the world can be a much better place if we focus on becoming a person of value then we share that value with others.” She says.