Hip-hop artist, singer, and writer Dessa shared insights on the transformative power of storytelling during a recent Finding Forward talk at the University of St. Thomas. The Minnesota native reflected on how her love for words began at an early age and how this passion has shaped her career in music and writing, helping her build compassion and understanding in a divided world.
Dessa recounted a formative childhood moment when her mother read the word “fortnight” aloud, sparking a deep curiosity in the young girl. “I remember a thrill, like the way in which I understand the world had changed by knowing a new term,” she recalled, noting how language opened up new perspectives for her at the age of three or four. “I had no idea you could cut up time that way.”
Since that moment, Dessa has made a name for herself, using words to create powerful narratives through her work as a hip-hop artist and singer. In her talk, she emphasized how stories — both personal and shared — hold the power to unite people, even across deep political and social divides, such as those seen in contemporary America.
At the Finding Forward event, Dessa discussed how personal vulnerability and empathy are essential in building mutual understanding. “All of us have exactly two portals to the world, which affords you a really small view of the known human world,” she explained. “The only way to expand that is to essentially trade stories with other travelers and say, what was it like for you? A story allows you to engage, to understand the stakes, and you can feel it playing on your heartstrings.”
The Finding Forward series, which seeks to foster dialogue and understanding in divided times, provided a platform for Dessa to delve into how sharing stories—whether through music, writing, or conversation—can be a powerful tool in connecting individuals across differing experiences.
Related Topics
Tayne Unleashes Aggressive New Single “Fear”
