Introduction

Dedication

For Gary Ross Cunningham (A writing buddy and friend) RIP: Jan 2015

Published by The Linnet's Wings, 2015

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Any person who does any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, re-sold, hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publisher's prior consent in any form or binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition including this condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

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ISBN-13: 978-1515164586
ISBN-10: 1515164586

Fiction

Fiction: Buckert, Memi, Rodgers

The Unwilling Father by Kathy Buckert

Zelda and the Kettle by Samantha Memi

Me and Errnesto by Ken Rodgers

Fiction: Allen, Dean, Majumdar

His Candle Bright, My Fickle Flesh by Christopher Allen

The Ones by Tommy Dean

The Hideaway Bed by Shreyasi Majumdar

Fiction: Cunningham, West, Smith

This Cockeyed World by Ross Cunningham

Sailing the Prairie by Bill West

Where Have All the Flowers Gone by Amy N Smith

Poetry

Poetry: Joslin and Walters

In this editorial, Joslin revisits a childhood memory that intertwines with the verses of W.B. Yeats' poem, The Cat and The Moon. Through the eyes of a struggling young reader, poetry became a refuge, a place where rhythm, rhyme, and imagery offered comfort and escape from the harsh realities of life. Yeats' portrayal of Minnaloushe the cat and the ever-changing moon struck a chord, resonating with the author's own sense of isolation and longing for connection. As the author revisits the poem years later, its timeless themes of solitude, change, and the delicate dance between understanding and mystery echo the bittersweet complexity of growing up.

Akeith Walters writes a raw and intimate portrayal of solitude and yearning. Set against the gritty backdrop of a city stoop, the poem captures a rare moment of quiet reflection as the speaker leans against the iron rail, a cigarette in hand and a warm beer by their side. The night is heavy with desire, and each exhaled breath of smoke becomes a silent call, drifting towards a lover five stories above. Through WaltersF evocative imagery and poignant language, the poem explores themes of longing and the fleeting nature of connection, offering a glimpse into the quiet moments that punctuate a life lived on the edge. This haunting piece resonates with the ache of unfulfilled desire and the silent beats of a heart waiting in the dark.

Akeith Walters writes a raw and intimate portrayal of solitude and yearning. Set against the gritty backdrop of a city stoop, the poem captures a rare moment of quiet reflection as the speaker leans against the iron rail, a cigarette in hand and a warm beer by their side. The night is heavy with desire, and each exhaled breath of smoke becomes a silent call, drifting towards a lover five stories above. Through Walters evocative imagery and poignant language, the poem explores themes of longing and the fleeting nature of connection, offering a glimpse into the quiet moments that punctuate a life lived on the edge. This haunting piece resonates with the ache of unfulfilled desire and the silent beats of a heart waiting in the dark.

"Broke--20" by Joan Colby is a poignant reflection on the lives of iconic artists and writers who, despite their genius, faced hardship, poverty, and obscurity. The poem weaves together a tapestry of creative souls like Rembrandt, Poe, Keats, and Van Gogh, juxtaposing their artistic brilliance with the struggles that marked their lives. Each line evokes the haunting images of masterpieces and literary works, underscoring the tragic irony that these creators, who gave the world so much, were often left destitute and misunderstood. Through a somber, vivid portrayal, Colby explores the enduring theme of the artist's plight, capturing the bittersweet reality of creativity bound with suffering.

"Manna" by David Jordan is a meditative poem that captures the quiet beauty of early morning. The imagery of dew on leaves, barbed wire, and flowers creates a serene landscape, evoking a sense of stillness and peace. Contrasting the natural world with subtle modern intrusions--a passing car, a silent jet-Jordan highlights the resilience and tranquility of nature. The poem suggests a sense of nourishment and preparation, as if the morning dew and the heavy flower offer a form of sustenance or "manna" to both nature and the human world. This piece invites readers to contemplate the balance between the natural and the man-made, finding solace in the quiet moments that connect them.

"Summer Meditation" by Kathleen Cassen Mickelson is a lush and evocative poem that captures the essence of a quiet summer morning. After the labor of weeding, the speaker pauses to embrace the simple joys of the garden-the scent of irises, the thick morning air, and the soft, warm breezes of June. The poem evokes a sense of deep contentment and gratitude, as the speaker basks in the richness of the season. With its vivid imagery and reflective tone, "Summer Meditation" invites readers to slow down, savor the present moment, and find peace in the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Poets: Jordan, Dillon, Burn

"Raymarie" by David Jordan is a tender, nostalgic poem that delves into the innocence and wonder of childhood. The speaker recalls moments of solitary play, finding joy and a sense of freedom in nature and imagination. From climbing tall pines to pretending an old, broken motorbike could still take them on adventures, the poem vividly captures the boundless creativity of a child's mind. The unplucked apples and the sweet meadow serve as symbols of untouched potential and exploration. As the poem shifts to a quieter tone, it reflects on the solitude that often accompanies such moments of deep play, highlighting a sense of cautious awareness and introspection. "Raymarie" beautifully balances the joy of childhood with the haunting presence of solitude, celebrating the delicate dance between imagination and introspection.

"Dunoon Ferry" by Des Dillon is a nostalgic and poignant reflection on youth, memory, and the passage of time. The poem evokes a sense of wistfulness as the speaker recalls moments from the past, transported back by the sight of an old chip-shop sign and the sensory memories it awakens. With vivid references to the seventies--flared trousers, radio hits, and first loves--the poem captures the innocence and intensity of youth, contrasting it with the inevitable changes brought by time. The narrative intertwines personal memories with broader cultural touchstones, reflecting on the fleeting nature of fame and the bittersweet realities of life. Through its rich imagery and emotional resonance, "Dunoon Ferry" explores the haunting beauty of memories that float just beneath the surface, like a ferry on its own ghostly reflection.

"Just" by Jane Burn is a poignant exploration of longing and connection set against the backdrop of nature’s twilight. As the day fades and the suns final rays give way to the night, the speaker finds solace in the quiet companionship of the natural world-nestling among tree roots, warmed by the earth, and accompanied by the gentle movements of insects. The poem weaves together themes of loss, yearning, and the enduring hope of finding comfort in a loved ones presence. Through rich, evocative imagery and the interplay of light and shadow, Burn captures the bittersweet beauty of waiting and the deep desire for a love that remains just out of reach, urging a turn from the obvious light to the subtle wisdom hidden in the dark.