Words Chose Me
“I never chose to write. Words chose me to be their writer.”
In the realm of poetry, Debra (Naz) Knight stands as a champion, her verses weaving together tales that resonate with the human spirit. As Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire, appointed by HM Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Susan Lousada, she captures the essence of the county through her evocative words, offering a glimpse into the collateral beauty that exists within its very fabric.
Read My Mind
Welcome to my world of words, where freedom takes shape on the blank canvas of a page. Writing is my sanctuary, my place of solitude where I define my boundaries and embrace the liberty to be unapologetically myself. It is within these lines that I craft an escape, inviting you to journey alongside me, seeking solace from the chaos of the world. Through my words, I do not evade my thoughts; instead, I confront them, seeking understanding and losing myself within the intricate tapestry of my mind. Observing my experiences objectively, only viewing My Life In Words.
Embracing Freedom
Within the realm of writing, I find the freedom to explore the depths of my thoughts and emotions. Each word becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of my imagination, allowing me to craft worlds, characters and narratives that transcend the boundaries of reality. Writing is not merely a means of expression; it is an embodiment of liberation.
Inviting Solitude
Solitude is not a burden within the realm of writing; it is a cherished companion that empowers me to delve into the recesses of my mind. In this tranquil space I find the clarity to confront my thoughts, unravel my emotions and weave them into the tapestry of my writing.
Crafting Connection
Through the shared journey of storytelling, I create a bridge that transcends individual perspectives. Each sentence is a thread that weaves a tapestry of connection, inviting readers into the intricate layers of human experience, and forging connections that resonate beyond the written word.
“I’m Free To Be Me.”
Booked Up: books and publications
The Collateral Beauty Series: a love story to Luton, told through poetry, play, prose and story.
Welcome to the captivating world of the Collateral Beauty Series. It’s My Life In Words: a tale of friendship, loss and the extraordinary moments that shape our lives, set against the backdrop of Luton. It follows Libby, a young Black woman from Luton, as she tries to reconcile where she comes from with who she is becoming. The series is being re-released in autumn 2026.
Butterfly Drinks Crocodile Tears
Naz's first book (2016): poetry, prose and art that turns trauma into testimony.
I Am Collateral Beauty
An autobiographical novel rooted in Luton and Eastern Caribbean heritage.
Poetry E.motion: Collateral Beauty Collection
Poetry and prose with a reflective journey thread.
I Can See What The Dark Looks Like
A multimedia poetry-theatre play.
Flutterbys Fables
Fairytales and fables inspired by Caribbean folk stories and Black British girlhood.
Words At Work: Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire
BedfordSHARE
Bedfordshire’s Poetry Together campaign: free workshops, the Ballad of Bedfordshire, three community anthologies and Bedfordshire Day.
Get involved →A Poem for Your Club
Poet in Residence at Luton Town Football Club with the National Literacy Trust and Arts Council England, writing “The Hatters’ Call” with fans.
Read more →Going international
“One Page, Many Tongues” at the National Association for Poetry Therapy’s International Research Symposium, Friday 4 December 2026.
Register free →Making Headlines
From victim to award winner
Naz’s journey, from survivor to award-winning founder of NINE RED Presents… (CIC).
On air
New: Naz on BBC Three Counties Radio, Sunday 25 October 2026, talking Poetry Together, BedfordSHARE and the National Year of Reading.
Say It Loud: spoken word
Welcome To My Life In Words
Want the full picture? See the colour behind the words.