Meet the Characters

Essay and More: Zelnick, Fitzpatrick, Giordano

Chekhov's Dark Comedy, Stephen Zelnick explores the enigmatic nature of The Seagull, a play Chekhov envisioned as comedy but layered with despair, cruelty, and unfulfilled lives. Zelnick examines Chekhov’s nuanced storytelling, which mocks genre conventions, embraces subtle irony, and resists tidy conclusions. The essay celebrates Chekhov's artful portrayal of flawed humanity amidst societal decline.

In Picture on Picture, Mari Fitzpatrick captures the lively interplay of nature and imagination through a vivid cat-and-mouse chase by a rain barrel. Blending humor and reflection, she contrasts the raw vitality of the pursuit with the serenity of a garden setting. The piece evolves into a poetic exploration of movement, tension, and the delicate balance of life in its fleeting moments.

In The Mandylion, Joe Giordano intertwines art, danger, and family dynamics through the lives of Anthony and Valentina Provati. This gripping excerpt sets the stage for a high-stakes narrative as Anthony, a Manhattan art dealer, is drawn back into a dangerous world by Sophia, an alluring figure from his past. With Valentina’s sharp wit and FBI expertise, the siblings navigate temptation, loyalty, and the shadowy underbelly of the art world.

Apple Beth

In The Pieces the Soul Knows by Apple Beth, the unseen depths of the human experience are illuminated through evocative imagery. The poem explores the quiet tremors of heartbreak, unspoken truths, and the wounds hidden beneath masks. A meditative journey through the soul's silent tides, it reflects on choices, dreams, and the healing that softens the edges of life's deepest scars

Tick Tock Chekhov by Apple Beth captures the rhythmic essence of time through the metaphor of a metronome. With its steady tick-tock, it becomes a symbol of lifeFs unyielding tempo, guiding moments with precision and grace. From youth to old age, it silently shapes the worldFs rhythm, embodying the relentless yet poetic flow of time, ever-present and unshakable.

This poem, Bright Sparks by Apple Beth, celebrates the wonder of children as luminous new souls who spark curiosity and joy. With every question, laugh, and tear, they rekindle our sense of wonder and expand our world. The poem reflects the privilege of guiding these bright spirits and honors their transformative power, likening their presence to constellations of hope and love.

In Beyond Words, Apple Beth crafts a whimsical tale where letters come alive, rallying to debate their evolving roles in language. With humor and charm, the piece explores the tension between tradition and change in grammar and word usage. As letters gather to decide their fate, the story celebrates the creativity and magic of language, offering a playful yet insightful commentary on how we communicate.

Poetry: Akeith Walters

In The City Shrugs, Akeith Walters captures a poignant winter morning, where frosty dew and long shadows paint a stark, crystal-shard landscape. The city, framed through a frosty attic window, becomes an indifferent observer--its busy skyline contrasts with the bitter wind and voiceless souls seeking warmth, embodying the weight of unmet expectations and the chill of human isolation.

In Silvering the Planet, Akeith Walters paints a poignant portrait of EarthFs quiet mourning. Sunset hues blend into silver starlight as the planet reflects on its past vitality, now overshadowed by humanityFs impact. With vivid imagery, the poem juxtaposes natureFs enduring beauty with the intrusion of manmade decay, evoking both reverence and lament for a world burdened by neglect.

In They Can Always Eat Stubborn Collard Greens, Akeith Walters weaves a somber reflection on climate change's relentless toll. Through vivid imagery of withering East Texas pines, dusty landscapes, and fragile remnants of life, the poem captures a world in decline. Yet, amidst the loss, the stubborn collard greens endure, embodying resilience and defiance against a hotter, harsher future.

Poets: Johnson and Joslin

In I Don’t Mind Muggins Man, Michael Lee Johnson humorously captures the mischievous antics of a spirited Persian cat. From sniffing red-hot peppers to wild leaps across a polished floor, the poem paints a lively portrait of feline chaos. With vivid imagery and playful tone, the poet transforms a moment of everyday life into an ode to the unpredictable charm of a beloved pet.

In Time's Garden, Oonah Joslin paints a hauntingly beautiful metaphor for mortality and eternity. The decaying garden, with its skeletal paths and silent sundial, evokes the inevitability of death, while the marble angel offers solace and perspective. Through the angel's guidance, the narrator glimpses the infinite expanse of time, transforming fear into awe and revealing the unity of all existence.

In Like Zen, Michael Lee Johnson reflects on the paradoxes of spiritual pursuit and human imperfection. Through vivid imagery of cherry blossoms, monastic simplicity, and fleeting moments, the poem explores the tension between earthly desires and transcendent aspirations. It captures the struggle of balancing Zen-like stillness and worldly chaos with raw honesty and introspection.

Poetry: Michael Lee Johnson

In Crows, Michael Lee Johnson juxtaposes the harshness of winter with the vitality of late summer, weaving a vivid narrative of hunger and survival. Through the eyes of scavenging crows, the poem captures a primal yearning that transcends seasons-an ode to persistence, as the black wings move from barren snowfields to the warm glow of corn-laden August skies.

In Like Zen, Michael Lee Johnson reflects on the paradoxes of spiritual pursuit and human imperfection. Through vivid imagery of cherry blossoms, monastic simplicity, and fleeting moments, the poem explores the tension between earthly desires and transcendent aspirations. It captures the struggle of balancing Zen-like stillness and worldly chaos with raw honesty and introspection.

In Fog Man, Michael Lee Johnson paints a haunting portrait of a solitary figure consumed by fog and memories. Amid obscenities and lunar scrutiny, the fog man’s cries echo through distant dreams of a lost lady. The poem captures the rawness of isolation, pride, and fleeting connections, weaving a visceral tale of human frailty in the misty void between past and present.

Story: Svehaug, Fitzpatrick and Fisher

In Not Right, Erik Svehaug crafts a chilling exploration of power, control, and the human spirit under oppression. Danford Fortegeist, a plantation owner driven by experimental ambition, treats his slaves as tools for his schemes. Through Fancy, a boy caught between identities and cultures, the narrative delves into resilience and the cost of freedom. A harrowing tale of systemic cruelty and defiance.

In A Windy Day in Connemara, Mari Fitzpatrick crafts a vivid portrait of natureFs raw power and serene beauty. The poem captures the rhythmic pulse of the ocean, the grace of seabirds, and the majesty of a lone deer in the coastal expanse. Through rich imagery and lyrical storytelling, it intertwines the chaos of the elements with the delicate balance of life, celebrating the untamed spirit of Connemara.

n Shiva by Ian Fisher, Ailbe orchestrates an extraordinary 75th birthday celebration for Ira, a reclusive man burdened by isolation. The lavish party features a Mandarin duck, snowfall, and virtual avatars of his favorite authors. Blending nostalgia and futuristic tech, it explores memory, connection, and human longing.

Drum School by Erik Svehaug, young Costas is cast out by his family into a life of hardship, eventually becoming a galley rower and discovering the transformative power of rhythm. Through grueling training, camaraderie, and mentorship, he finds redemption and purpose, his scars symbolizing resilience. A tale of loss, endurance, and identity, Costas journey honors his past while embracing a powerful future.

Poetry: robillard, Higgins, Langford

"The Table in the Garden" is a testament to the power of nature to inspire, to heal, and to bring people together. It celebrates the simple, yet profound moments of connection that can occur in the midst of natural beauty.

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"Barely Escaped" serves as a reminder of the complexity of life and the unexpected turns it can take, encouraging a reflective stance towards our actions and their consequences.

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The poem serves as a tribute not just to Plath but to all who navigate life with an acute sense of sensitivity. It highlights the beauty and curse of such a disposition--the ability to perceive deeply and intensely

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Higgins crafts a multi-layered narrative in a compact form, utilizing the image of the wasp and the actions surrounding it to delve into complex themes of fear, struggle, and the human condition.

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Poetry: Jeppessen, Long and McCotter

Jeppessen's work poignantly captures a moment of childhood where sensory experiences and peer interactions blend to form lasting memories. The poem's vivid imagery and candid reflection highlight the bittersweet nature of growing up and the enduring impact of seemingly mundane moments.

Stan Long's "Apprehension" invites readers to ponder the origins of consciousness and its profound connection to the cosmos. The poemFs exploration of seeing, believing, and understanding reflects a deep curiosity about the nature of existence and our place within it. By weaving together themes of inner vision, evolution, and cosmic origins, Long crafts a contemplative piece that resonates with both scientific and philosophical inquiries.

The Basket Weaver" by Clare McCotter celebrates the art of basket weaving, juxtaposing traditional craftsmanship against modern therapeutic practices. The poem describes a newly qualified occupational therapist who embraces basket weaving, despite its outdated perception among peers. The narrator, considered a "basket case," finds solace in creating a basket, symbolizing a sanctuary for thoughts and prayers. Through vivid imagery and a reflection on change, the poem underscores the enduring value of hands-on creativity and its calming influence on the mind.

Poetry: Ian C. Smith

"Black Overcoat" is a deeply reflective poem that uses rich imagery and metaphor to convey the poet's struggle with memory loss and the resulting sense of isolation. Through the act of writing, the poet attempts to preserve fleeting moments and maintain a connection to a reality that often feels elusive. The poem is a moving meditation on the importance of memory and the inevitable passage of time.

"Literary Vagabond" paints a vivid and multifaceted portrait of a controversial and dedicated writer, likely James Joyce, capturing the essence of his rebellious spirit, creative genius, and the personal sacrifices that accompanied his literary achievements. Through rich imagery and poignant themes, Ian C Smith offers a compelling glimpse into the life of a literary icon whose works continue to challenge and inspire.






"Rue has a bitter scent" captures the essence of regret and the haunting nature of past mistakes through its vivid imagery and introspective narrative. The poem eloquently conveys the speakers internal struggle with memories and the deep yearning for redemption and reconciliation. Through its exploration of lost love and personal reflection, Ian C Smith offers a poignant and relatable meditation on the complexities of human emotions and the passage of time.

Stories: West, Burroughs and Joslin

Every Stick by Bill West
A scarecrow in a stovepipe hat fiddled and danced a jig. Discordant notes sharp as star frost. He thumped the earth with twiggy feet and croaked his garbled song. The wind whipped the dirge away through empty skies. No owls blinked time from the skeletal trees, no gulls mewed the chorus whilst skimming barren waves. His bow was smooth, his fiddle unstrung.

Knotted Fables, Novella Excerpt, by John P. Bourgeois
Based on how frequently she saw the stork and heard the bird's clacking beak, the hare knew she was kilometres ahead of the tortoise. Comforted by this, she stopped to graze at a particularly emerald patch of nettles and dandelions. The run had famished her, but the hare did not want to eat her fill at the banquet. Not in front of the other animals.

The Whole Circus by Oonah Joslin
Pyro the dragon flew around the big top trying to create a breeze, make the banners flap, make the canvas sides billow out -- anything to get seen. He watched the audience applaud as Julianne somersaulted on Tiny’s back. Tiny’s huge feet plodded round the ring kicking up swirls of sawdust. He trumpeted with his long nose, knelt and stood and swished his little tail. They even went 'Oooooooo’ when he did a huge poo -- right there -- on the circus floor.

In the bright afternoon sun, young Archie Cleebo runs from school into a fateful encounter with the town's best marble players. Dressed in worn-out overalls, Archie boldly challenges the intimidating Weaver brothers for their prized marbles. Despite his skill, Archie faces bullying and deceit, but his courage shines through. Saved from a beating by Lonnie Johnson, an old friend of his father, Archie finds unexpected allies. Set just before WWII, this gripping tale, based on the author's life, captures the struggles and triumphs of a young boy in a small mining town.

On the third Tuesday of every month, Elspeth joins her eclectic book group, navigating the peculiar dynamics and varied tastes of its members. This month, Alison presents "CassiopeiaFs Hair," a mysterious book with a murky past linked to her uncleFs strange death in Tangier. Despite warnings of the book bringing bad luck, the group decides to read it. Amidst personal revelations and conflicts, the enigmatic FreyaFs departure and a final twist leave Elspeth pondering the thin line between fiction and reality. A tale of intrigue, relationships, and the unexpected impact of a single book.

After a night of dancing, two elderly couples, James, Charlie, April, and Isabelle, leave the hotel ballroom in high spirits. Drunk on laughter and nostalgia, they reminisce about their youth, especially a memorable night swimming at sixteen. Deciding to relive that moment, they take a train to the beach, where under the cover of night, they strip down and wade into the cold water, feeling young again. This poignant story captures the essence of friendship, the passage of time, and the longing to reconnect with the past. Dive into a tale of joy, reflection, and timeless camaraderie.

Poetry: Charman, Mack, Hammick

Charman's poem recounts the apocryphal story of the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus, who was purportedly killed when a tortoise, dropped by an eagle, struck his bald head. This bizarre and ironic end serves as the backdrop for a meditation on fate, control, and the nature of existence.

"Elderflower Moon" by Sheree Mack is a lyrical and atmospheric poem that captures the reader's imagination with its vivid natural imagery and mystical elements. The poem invites readers to explore and find the speaker in a serene, enchanted setting, blending the boundaries between human presence and the natural world.

"Porcelain Prisoner" is a rich, multi-layered poem that explores complex themes through vivid imagery and a reflective narrative. It captures the essence of familial bonds and the enduring impact of memories, inviting readers to reflect on their own connections to the past.

Classic Braum and Quixote

Adventures of a Dead Body by Don Quixote
They saw, advancing towards them, on the same road, a great number of lights, resembling so many moving stars. Sancho stood aghast at the sight of them, nor was Don Quixote unmoved. The one checked his ass and the other his horse, and both stood looking before them with eager attention. They perceived that the lights were advancing towards them, and that as they approached nearer they appeared larger.

The Deadly Poppy Field by L Frank Braum
Our little party of travelers awakened the next morning refreshed and full of hope, and Dorothy breakfasted like a princess off peaches and plums from the trees beside the river. Behind them was the dark forest they had passed safely through, although they had suffered many discouragements; but before them was a lovely, sunny country that seemed to beckon them on to the Emerald City.

Fiction: Joseph, Shel Anderson, Moat

In this gripping narrative, Saul, a tortured artist, navigates the treacherous waters of creativity and personal demons. Amidst the shadows of his past and the complexities of his relationship with Emily, he searches for truth in his art, embodying the quintessential struggle of the creator.

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"Love Song of a Divorce Attorney" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, masterfully blending the personal with the professional, the emotional with the environmental, to reveal the complex tapestry of life that unfolds even in the most ordinary momen

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This narrative provides a fertile ground for exploring themes of perception, reality, and the thin line between sanity and madness. It also touches on the deep human need for connection and understanding, and the ways in which people cope with challenging circumstances.

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ART

My Inner Colours by Maire Morrisey Cummins

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Writer's Corner

www.writerscorner.org was established in 2007, to facilitate our editor's work at 'The Linnet's Wings'. www.thelinnetswings.org

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Fall/Winter 2024

Distressed

In the turning of soil, we return to dust,
As whispers of names fade into the wind,
Yet we walk the well-worn path of those before--
Footprints faint but etched in earth.
...

Fall Winter 2024 Archive


explores a steadfast refusal to conform, with a protagonist wielding negation as affirmation. Amidst ancient calls of war and the incessant demands of society, they choose a path of resistance, finding strength in the relentless seas that surround and define them. Each plea and confrontation sharpens their resolve, as they navigate through exile, identity, and the echoes of their defiance.

Vox by Jan De Wilde


José Marti

The first duty of a man is to think for himself


Barack Obama

The strongest democracies flourish from frequent and lively debate, but they endure when people of every background and belief find a way to set aside smaller differences in service of a greater purpose.

Press conference, Feb. 9, 2009


Robert Hutchins

The death of democracy is not likely to be an assassination from ambush it will be a slow extinction from apathy, indifference, and undernourishment.


Bill Moyers

Democracy works when people claim it as their own.
The Nation, Jan. 22, 2009


Sean McBride

Presumably Alfred Nobel by his bequest intended that the individual selected to receive his award would avail of the occasion which he thus created to propound his suggestions for world peace. If I have appeared to complain against the existing complacency of institutional establishments -- governmental and religious -- it is to permit me to make concrete suggestions.

Nobel Lecture


Abraham Lincoln

I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts, and beer.


Aristotle

Democracy is when the indigent, and not the men of property, are the rulers.


Charlie Chaplin

I remain just one thing, and one thing only, and that is a clown. It places me on a far higher plane than any politician


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