* His own experiences: Myers grew up in Harlem, experiencing poverty and racism firsthand. He was a high school dropout and served in the Army, all of which informed his powerful and realistic portrayals of urban life and the struggles of young people.
* The power of literature: As a young boy, Myers found solace and escape in books. He was particularly drawn to the works of African American writers like Richard Wright and James Baldwin, who explored themes of race, identity, and social injustice. He was also inspired by the works of J.D. Salinger and Ernest Hemingway.
* His desire to give a voice to the voiceless: Myers believed in the importance of telling the stories of marginalized communities, especially young people. He wanted to create characters who reflected the diverse experiences of the world and to give them a voice through his writing.
* His passion for language: Myers was deeply fascinated by the beauty and power of language. He saw it as a tool for communication, understanding, and social change. He used his writing to explore the complexities of human experience and to challenge societal norms.
In an interview, Myers stated, "I write because I believe in the power of stories. I believe that stories can change the world, that they can make people think differently, that they can make people understand each other better." His dedication to this belief fueled his prolific career, resulting in numerous award-winning novels, short stories, and poems that continue to inspire readers today.