Imagine a poet who transforms the raw edges of faith, identity, and queerness into lyrical prose that resonates like a quiet revolution—meet R/B Mertz! This trans/non-binary butch poet and artist, now based in Toronto, has captivated readers with their memoir Burning Butch and over a hundred poems published in prestigious journals. Mertz’s work, steeped in the complexities of conservative Catholic culture, offers a bold exploration of self-discovery that’s as heart-wrenching as it is hopeful.
With a voice that’s both witty and vulnerable, Mertz invites readers into their journey from a rigid religious upbringing to embracing their authentic self. Their storytelling, infused with poetic metaphors, bridges worlds—making their work a beacon for anyone navigating the intersections of faith and identity.
The Making of R/B Mertz
R/B Mertz grew up in a conservative Catholic homeschooling community near Washington, D.C., after their parents’ divorce split their childhood between rural Pennsylvania and Maryland. Raised in a world of saints, prayers, and strict gender norms, Mertz found solace in musicals and creative writing, early outlets for their burgeoning queer identity. Despite the oppressive environment, they clung to Catholicism as a rebellion against their anti-Catholic father, setting the stage for a lifelong wrestle with faith and self.
Mertz’s path to poetry took root in their teens, blossoming during their time at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, a conservative Catholic college in Ohio. There, amidst the culture wars of the early 2000s, they began to question dogma through literature and theology, laying the groundwork for their distinctive voice. After earning an MFA in poetry from the University of Pittsburgh in 2010, Mertz taught writing for eleven years, shaping their craft and community.
R/B Mertz’s Unforgettable Stories
Mertz’s memoir, Burning Butch (Unnamed Press, 2022), is a tour de force of queer resilience. Chronicling their journey from a repressive Catholic subculture to embracing their trans/non-binary butch identity, the book blends heart-wrenching honesty with wry humor. Critics, including Autostraddle, have hailed it as “the trans memoir we’ve always needed,” praising its vivid prose and unflinching exploration of trauma and triumph.
Their poetry collection, CU T (Threadsuns Press, 2024), showcases Mertz’s lyrical prowess, diving into themes of gender nonconformity and spiritual reckoning. Poems like “(We all end up in) the CAN,” published in the American Journal of Poetry, pulse with raw emotion and inventive metaphors. Mertz’s essay, “How Whiteness Kills God & Sprinkles Crack on the Body,” further demonstrates their ability to weave cultural critique with personal narrative, earning acclaim for its bold insights.
Mertz’s style is a poetic tightrope walk—playful yet profound, blending Catholic imagery with queer liberation. Their work doesn’t just tell stories; it invites readers to question binaries and find beauty in contradiction, making it a vital contribution to contemporary queer literature.
Why R/B Mertz Matters
R/B Mertz’s work is a lifeline for those navigating the fraught terrain of faith, queerness, and identity. By sharing their story, they challenge the oppressive structures of conservative religion while celebrating the transformative power of art. Their memoir and poetry resonate with readers who feel like outsiders, offering hope and a roadmap for self-acceptance. Mertz’s influence extends beyond the page, as their teaching and advocacy in Pittsburgh and Toronto foster inclusive spaces for emerging writers.
Critics like Dawn Lundy Martin compare Mertz to Leslie Feinberg, noting their role in deepening the literary tradition of butch and gender-nonconforming voices. In a world where trans and non-binary stories are often silenced, Mertz’s courage and clarity make them a vital voice in modern literature.
- Born: Not publicly disclosed
- Key Works: Burning Butch (2022), CU T (2024)
- Notable Recognition: Finalist for City of Asylum’s 2020-21 Emerging Poet Laureate of Pittsburgh
Ready to dive into a world where faith meets rebellion? Grab Burning Butch or CU T and let R/B Mertz’s poetic brilliance light your way!