THE LEGENDARY TALKS
— Conversation - 9
GOLDEN WORDS
An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Joseph S. Spence Sr.
Interviewer: Maja Milojković
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Poetry is where the soul breathes, where silence finds a voice, and where I commune with the divine through the power of sacred language.
— Dr. Joseph S. Spence Sr.
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Dr. Joseph S. Spence Sr., an Ambassador, Professor, and Dr., is a poet-scholar, the originator of the Linking Pin Sonnet, and the developer of the Check–Check–Check Reflective Model. A Thought Leader at Golden Key, he integrates poetry, leadership, and scholarship to advance global humanitarian dialogue, interdisciplinary research, and purposeful, transformative engagement across diverse communities worldwide.
Maja Milojković,
Editor, AREA FELIX,
Belgrade, Serbia.
Maja Milojković:
As the creator of unique poetic forms, such as Epulaeryu and the Linking Pin Sonnet, do you see yourself more as a poetic architect, a literary scientist, or a spiritual visionary?
Joseph S. Spence:
Regarding my Poetic Identity, I see myself as a poetic architect, a literary scientist, and above all, a spiritual visionary — shaped by the Holy Scriptures, and guided by the greatest poetry book ever written — The Holy Bible. From the Psalms of David to the Proverbs of Solomon, the Bible gave me my first understanding of rhythm, imagery, and divine inspiration. My mother, taught me, while in high school, how to read, write, recite and interpret poetry, scripture, and the world, which has rooted my poetry in truth and grace. Each form I create — like the Epulaeryu or Linking Pin Sonnet — is a reflection of that spiritual legacy, which is built with intention, explored with curiosity, and delivered with a sacred purpose to inspire and uplift worldwide humanity graciously.
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Poetry, like food, is a ministry of sharing and thanksgiving.
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Maja Milojković:
Your poetic path has taken you across continents. In what way have diverse cultures — and their cuisines — influenced the tone, rhythm, and flavor of your verses?
Joseph S. Spence:
Regarding my Poetic Cultural and Culinary Influence, traveling the world has deepened my poetic palette, but the spiritual table was first set by my mother through scriptural devotions, and home-cooked meals, seasoned with love and lessons. Diverse cultures and cuisines have added musicality, texture, grace, and joyfulness to my work, much like the feast parables of the Bible that nourish one’s body and soul. In creating the Epulaeryu, I simply followed the biblical example — where even bread and fish fed multitudes (Sermon on the Mount, with five loves and two fish given by a child — Matthew 14:13-21), and wine carried symbolism (wedding of Cana, Galilee, where Jesus turned water into wine, His first miracle — John 2:1-11). Poetry, like food, is a ministry of sharing and thanksgiving. In my book “Sincerely Speaking Spiritually,” section four reflects Spiritual Epulaeryu poems, which you most likely have joyously read.
Maja Milojković:
You have journeyed from the disciplined world of military service to the open realms of literary creation. How do these two worlds coexist within you?
Joseph S. Spence:
This question is regarding Military and Literary Balance. My journeys from the battlefield to literature were not singular tasks. They were simultaneous linking events. The echoes arising from the spiritual transformation of biblical figures like David, was both a warrior and a psalmist. Military discipline taught me courage and structure; combined with that of biblical study and poetry, has taught me to speak peace into chaos. These worlds are not at odds; they are united within me, just as Scripture holds lament and praise side by side. I’ve learned to lead with integrity and write with reverence, always mindful that both the sword and pen can serve divine purpose when guided by love.
During my military service, I completed the Eucharist Minister Course, with the Office of the Episcopal Bishop of the Armed Forces, The Right Reverend Charles Burgreen. Thereafter, I served as a Eucharist Minister working with protestant ministers worldwide on the weekends, where I voluntarily administered to soldiers and their family members as an additional duty.
Maja Milojković:
Spirituality seems to permeate your work. Do you consider poetry an extension of prayer or a sacred act of reflection?
Joseph S. Spence:
This question is regarding my Poetry and Prayer practice. To me, poetry is prayer in motion. The Psalms were my first poems, and they still guide my pen today. Whether I’m praising, questioning, or meditating, I follow in the tradition of those sacred verses — crying out to God and listening deeply. My mother taught me early on that a well-crafted line can carry the same spiritual weight as a whispered prayer. Poetry is where the soul breathes, where silence finds a voice, and where I commune with the divine through the power of sacred language. This is life to me and to which I am totally integrated.
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Poetry doesn’t just reflect hope — it becomes hope!
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Maja Milojković:
Was there a moment in your life when poetry served as a lifeline — for you or someone else?
Joseph S. Spence:
This question is regarding Poetry as a Lifeline. There have been many moments when poetry became a lifeline for me and others. One stands out during a season of loss, when the words of Ecclesiastes —“to everything there is a season”—held me steady. I poured my pain into poetry, and it became the essence of both a healing balm and beacon for humanity. Later, a young reader shared that one of my poems gave him strength to keep living. That moment echoed my mother’s voice, teaching me that words shaped in faith can save lives. Poetry doesn’t just reflect hope — it becomes hope!
Maja Milojković:
All proceeds from several of your publications were donated to charitable causes. Do you believe that true art must carry a sense of moral responsibility?
Joseph S. Spence:
This question highlights my personal practice and belief regarding Moral Responsibility of Art. During, the tragic 9/11 attacks, I was serving as the poetry chaplain for the Worldwide Alliance of Poets (WWAP), based in the UK. I felt called to act, and I donated proceeds from four of my books, published by WWAP to support the first responders suffering from life-altering health issues. It was my way of turning written words into living compassion — something my biblical upbringing taught me was non-negotiable. James 2:17 says, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” For me, poetry must be paired with purpose. When art serves others, it becomes a ministry. That’s the heartbeat of my calling.
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Receiving the title Ambassador of Humanity is both a personal and poetic affirmation of my faith-driven mission.
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Maja Milojković:
Having studied mythology, linguistics, and literature, is there a particular myth, word, or narrative that continues to echo in your memory?
Joseph S. Spence:
The question reflects on Echoes of Myth and Meaning. Though I’ve studied global myths and literature, the Word of God continues to echo most clearly in my memory. The story of Joseph — betrayed, imprisoned, yet lifted by divine favor — has shaped much of my life and writing (Genesis 37-38). Linguistically, the Hebrew word “dabar” (meaning both “word” and “act”) reminds me that spoken truth is active, not passive. My mother showed me how each biblical story was not just a lesson, but a living poem — one that still whispers through every stanza I write.
Maja Milojković:
Your concept of Trilogy Poetry explores person, place, and thing. What three elements would you personally choose to represent your life’s journey?
Joseph S. Spence:
Trilogy Poetry and Life’s Symbols are intricately intertwined in my persona and aura. If I were to write a Trilogy Poem of my life, I’d choose: disciple (person), altar (place), and scroll (thing). As a disciple, I walk in the legacy of my mother’s faith and biblical instruction. The altar represents the sacred space — whether church, battlefield, or desk — where I lay my words before God. And the scroll speaks of divine revelation and my calling to record what uplifts and transforms. These elements shape my poetic journey: faithful, sacred, and eternal. The original invention of Trilogy Poetry consisted on three persons — The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The foundation is a proper noun. All three thing could be either a place, person, or thing, or the combination of each. It’s the poet’s choice regarding which ones to use.
Maja Milojković:
As a recipient of the title Ambassador of Humanity, do you interpret that honor — both personally and poetically?
Joseph S. Spence:
This is a great inquiry regarding Ambassador of Humanity. Receiving the title Ambassador of Humanity is both a personal and poetic affirmation of my faith-driven mission. My mother taught me that every title is a testimony, and to serve is the highest honor. Scripture teaches us that we are ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), and are called to reconcile and restore. I see my poetry as a tool for that calling—a means of connecting hearts, healing wounds, and proclaiming the truth. Representing humanity in its best form with humility and humbleness, is to reflect divine love in word and deed.
Maja Milojković:
If you could leave behind a single poetic line to whisper through the ages, what would it be?
Joseph S. Spence:
Regarding an Eternal Poetic Line, if I could leave behind one poetic line to echo through eternity, it would be: “Write your faith in fire, so even in ashes, it still speaks!”
Inspired by Jeremiah, who states, “Fire-shut-up-in-his-bones” (Jeremiah 28:9), gives the urgency and intensity to proliferate God’s message. Based on my mother’s teachings and unshakable faith, this line is my benediction to the world. No matter what comes, may my poetry bear the embers of divine purpose — lighting paths, warming hearts, and whispering eternity in every syllable — Amen!
Thanks for your interview question. They were intricately drafted and carry deep resonance of faith. I can tell that your faith is strong and vibrant. This constitutes my humble response. Thank you for the thoughtful interview, questions for clarity of purpose, and divine uplifting inspiration.
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Maja Milojković
Born in 1975 in Zaječar, Maja lived in Bor, Serbia and currently she lives between Serbia and Denmark. She holds an accolade of internationally recognized poet who advocates for peace in the world. Also, she is the deputy editor at “Sfairos” printing house in Belgrade, Serbia. Moreover, she is the vice-president of the association “Rtanj and Mesečev peski krug”. Since, Milojković is a person whose blood has been running from Leonardo da Vinci’s statement “Painting is poetry; so, that can be seen, and poetry is a picture that can be heard.” She is also a painter and reviewer.
Accolade:
As a poet, Maja is represented in numerous domestic and foreign literary newspapers, anthologies and electronic media. And, some of her songs are also available on YouTube. Furthermore, she is the winner of many international awards. Also, she is an activist of many associations and organizations, for peace in world, against violence against animals, racism, etc.
Work:
Milojković is the author of 2 books: “The Circle of the Moon”- 2019 and “Trees of Desire”- 2023. Her poems have been translated into English; Hungarian; Bengali; Urdu; Pashto; Hindi and Bulgarian.
Maja Milojković is a member of the poetry club “Area Felix” from Zaječar, Serbia, and a member of the literary club “Zlatno pero” from Knjaževac, Serbia. She is also a member of the International Association of Writers and Artists “Gorski vidici” (“Mountain Views”) from Podgorica, Montenegro and other international organizations.