Creative Projects
Mackenzie’s creative work spans poetry, creative nonfiction, and fiction, with a particular interest in exploring identity, memory, relationships, travel, and the complexities of human experience. Her fiction often takes a darker, dystopian approach, while her poetry and nonfiction allow her to experiment with voice, perspective, and personal storytelling.
This Beautiful Place
This essay opens with an excerpt of Good Bones, a poem by Maggie Smith. It explores a juxtaposition between personal narrative and historical perspective on the history of Flint through Mackenzie's eyes. It examines the broader definitions of good bones, as Mackenzie reflects on what that could mean for her personally and the city in which she calls home.
Tears for Those You Never Got to Meet
This essay offers the reader an opportunity to jump into Mackenzie's shoes and reflect on the moments where gun violence played a role in her upbringing and were ultimately fabricated into the fibers of her being. The reflective nature of the piece encourages readers to think about the ways in which gun violence has effected them and the communities they love most.
Ours
This essay weaves together pieces of greek mythology, history, and personal narrative all under the broad category of water. The piece explores themes of connectedness and human nature while calling on travel, memory, and pondering ideas about human existence.
User 210074
This piece of fiction places readers in a dystopian setting where families know little to nothing about each other and maintain contact through computer screens. It explores themes of personal identity, workplace culture, governmental influence, and the reliance on technology.
Green Acres Farm
This horror fiction piece details the narrator's day-to-day life that becomes out of the ordinary. When strange dreams start causing the narrator to ask larger questions, the truth about her family's wholesome farm suddenly becomes clear.
Poetry Collection
This collection of poems explores themes of reflection and strong emotions. It uses natural elements and personal experiences to paint a larger picture for readers.