Meet the Characters

Kiernan, Long, O'Brien, Art Gallery

Marlow speaks again

Crow

Precious

Art Gallery

Haynes, McManus and Salzano

Rosie and Max is a beautiful piece that portrays the power of everyday rituals and the strength to carry on after a challenging day.

'The Orange Room' by Conor McManus is a vivid and sensuous piece of writing, capturing the intimate and contemplative moments of the protagonist.

Salzano's 'Turn the Page' is a deeply moving piece that uses the backdrop of a classic rock song to explore themes of nostalgia, longing, and the emotional landscapes of life ...

Managan, Augustine, Collins

Angelic by Yvette Managan beautifully intertwines themes of love, passion, loss, and the haunting presence of the past, all while navigating the intricate dance of human emotions and interactions.

"Simple Tilly" is not just a story about a young girlFs encounter with love and betrayal; it is a reflection on the strength of the human spirit in the face of lifeFs adversities. It speaks to the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging

Learning to Fly by Anne Collisn is a reflection on the strength of the human spirit in the face of life's adversities. It speaks to the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging and acceptance.

Poetry: Colby, Yuan, Black

'Arbitration' is a thought-provoking piece that invites readers to reflect on its metaphysical and philosophical aspects

'My Crow' by Changming Yuan. It beautifully captures the emotions of loss and the fleeting nature of relationships.

'Sunflowers' is a reflective and contemplative poem that encourages readers to ponder the mysteries of existence and the limitations of human perception

'Short Shrift' by Sheila Black is a beautiful and evocative poem that captures fleeting moments and observations in a vivid and contemplative way.

Poetry:Brewer, Burke, Colwell,Shields

A Few Thoughts On The Soul by Constance Brewer explores the idea of soul-sharing and soulmates with a touch of whimsy and realism. It questions the traditional notions of soulmates, suggesting that perhaps it’s better to share a soul like a good bottle of wine or find a soul half by random chance, embracing differences like a love for opera.

This prose poem captures the essence of Jackson Pollock's art. His art is a pure, natural expression, a testament to the unwritten history of America, challenging conventional boundaries and igniting the imagination. The poem emphasizes Pollock's unrestrained artistic vision, defying justification and continually evolving, much like the mythical Atlantis.

This poem poignantly captures the lingering taste of a lost love through the metaphor of morning coffee. Each sip washes away the remnants of last night's dinner, but the memory of their past lover's taste persists, highlighting the enduring impact of love and loss. The simplicity of the imagery makes this a relatable and evocative piece.

This evocative poem by Ronald E. Shields reminisces about childhood in the 1960s. The poem vividly recalls the pretzel cart, the Good Humor ice cream truck, and Johnny the donut man, capturing the essence of a simpler time. It describes boys catching squirrels, playing stickball, and learning to "duck and cover" in school. As the world begins to change, ...

Poetry: Lee, Mickelson, Burn

Lament for When I Did Not by Mary Lee is a reflective and evocative poem that explores themes of self-acceptance and personal growth. It poetically advises abandoning the opinions of others to embrace the present moment and cleanse oneself of ego and regret. The poem advocates for appreciating others, surrendering to solace, and welcoming grace. It encourages acts of hospitality, igniting desire, and exploring fantasies. Confidence is kindled in the face of despair, and the reader is invited to listen to nature, make peace with grief, and welcome the newness of each day. The poem concludes with a call to compassionate action, seeking beauty and understanding.

Lost Laundry by Kathleen Cassen Michelson is a poignant poem about a daughter grappling with her fatherFs aging and the loss of independence. When his pants go missing at his assisted living facility, she is overcome with emotion, recalling the significance of those pants from his last solo trip. The poem delves into themes of memory, loss, and the fear of inevitable separation, highlighting the deep bond between father and daughter amidst life's transitions.

Columibade by Jane Burn is a vivid and evocative poem exploring themes of purity, sacrifice, and the natural world. The poet portrays the birds as burnt offerings, their shoulders dusted with ash, symbolizing purity and the human desire for cleanliness. The imagery of magicians, snowy feathers, and scarlet yarn highlights the contrast between perceived purity and the harsh reality of life. The poem delves into the coexistence of pigeons and humans, emphasizing the pigeons resilience and their larger, faster-beating hearts. It touches on spiritual themes, referencing the dove as a symbol of innocence and divine connection. The poem concludes with a reflection on human limitations and the enduring purity of birds.

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

Building Archives



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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DEMOCRACIES

Modern democracies will face difficult new challenges--fighting terrorism, adjusting to globalization,
adapting to an aging society--and they will have to make their system work much better than it currently does. That means making democratic decision-making effective, reintegrating constitutional liberalism into the practice of democracy, rebuilding broken political institutions and civic associations. Perhaps most difficult of all, it requires that those with immense power in our societies embrace their responsibilities, lead, and set standards that are not only legal, but moral. Without this inner stuffing, democracy will become an empty shell, not simply inadequate but potentially dangerous, bringing with it the erosion of liberty, the manipulation of freedom, and the decay of a common life.


FAREED ZAKARIA, The Future of Freedom


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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