How to Be Outside, Inside: Poet Roya Marsh Makes a Strong Case for Never Leaving Home

Roya Marsh is a poet, performer, educator, and activist, and she’s proudly born and raised in the Bronx. When she’s not leading workshops for the Bronx Poet Laureate (which she co-founded), or guiding LGBTQ+ youth and emerging writers through programs at PEN America and Lambda Library, she’s making rounds at some of her favorite public-but-private spaces in the Boogie Down. From run clubs to duck pond gazing to a holy-grail “OG chopped cheese,” Marsh guides us through her perfect New York day, and all the spots she retreats to when she wants the rest and reset.

Okayplayer: When you want to be “outside” without being OUTSIDE, where do you go in NYC?

Roya Marsh: My go-to spot is a Little Nook by the Eastchester Bay, in Pelham Bay Park. I have always felt called to the water, and I’m blessed to have access that is close to home. It’s the perfect place to quiet my thoughts and let the ambient sounds of nature cradle me. Sometimes, there’ll be folks fishing, picnicking, or even taking a dip. I can sit and watch the ducks for hours, in awe and a bit envious of their freedom and abilities to swim and fly. 

Where do you go when you want to be around people, but not overwhelmed by crowds?

When I want to be around people without feeling overwhelmed by crowds, I go for a run. I’ve been able to rock with the Boogie Down Bronx Runners, Mile Stylers, Dyckman Run Club, and Community Run Club. Each club has its own sense of community and connection, but in a way that feels comfortable and grounding rather than chaotic. We’re pounding the pavement together with a shared purpose, moving side by side, talking when we want to, and enjoying quiet moments when we don’t. 

I have gotten to see so many different parts of the city and deepen my relationship with the pavement and my body. It’s become more than just running; it’s where I’ve built genuine friendships, found encouragement, and felt a real sense of belonging without the pressure of large, noisy spaces. And in this highly capitalistic city, I’m ever grateful for the folks who work to keep running FREE!

What does your perfect NYC day look like, from morning to night?

A perfect NYC day starts with my morning affirmations, static stretching, and 40 minutes of writing. If I’m not in a smoothie mood, I’ll make myself some turkey bacon and hash browns with a side of tea while I listen to the radio. The sun is beaming, and the water will be calling my name, so I’ll take a ride over to the park before picking up my nephew from school and getting the juiciest fifth-grade tea. After dropping him off, I’ll link with Dubora over at Grounds Donut House, on East Tremont, for a lil’ chat and chew. 

My next stop would have to be the Pelham Bay Library, my favorite outside/inside spot to get work done and check out some new reads. If we’re talking about the perfect day, I’m definitely going to Quayah’s to gossip, play with Ky, and sneak in a late afternoon nap to rejuvenate before the night’s festivities. The well-rested baddie in me will be ready to catch a vibe and eat well at Empanology (‘OG Chopped Cheese’ me PLEASE) over at the Bronx Brewery. I’ll cap the night off by stepping into the garden with my Uncle Earlies, while we catch each other up on our respective lives, kick back, and laugh until our stomachs hurt. All of that without ever having to leave the toughest borough. 

If I died and came back, I’d choose the Bronx again and again. While everyone is trying to make it out, I’m gon’ make it IN!