Issue: 2025

A poem tells the heart: it must be true— unless perception is a lie and all considered feeling false; unless we err by saying, steal the essence of the said or bury it among the speechless dead. If by my lines I mean to raise, to stir awake, to show, i … Continue Reading

Naked in a canoe, you emerge blossoming like tawdry April in a town that’s turned its back to the river. The span is iron trestle, riveted to carry freight, all green and rust. Magnolia, dogwood strike out improbably against the wet and dark forgotten … Continue Reading

I sit on her porch. Alone. It’s quiet Except for the faint Rolling of crickets Chirping their song. There is a calm, cool breeze Gently rocking the goldenrods. The second day of autumn Brings with it their sweet, soothing scent. Only the distant hum of … Continue Reading

Your limbs quiver as the wood floor slips under your nails and your flanks knock into furniture. You’re braving your longest trek: from couch to kitchen to water dish. With lightning in my heart, I watch you unlearning how to walk—a puppy in reverse. T … Continue Reading

Here’s to the guides Who light our path Saying nothing of our twists and turns Simply holding a candle Some paths are wide Worn smooth by wealthy men Other paths are hidden Even from those meant to walk them This uncovering is my life’s work The story … Continue Reading

We came upon the overturned boat engulfed in catbrier, timbers rotting, far from any body of water. How had we missed it? Hardly any blue left on the hull. You were leaving me, I was leaving you, but neither of us had so declared. One thing we always d … Continue Reading

“The world is better now that you are here.” That was what the sign above the entrance read. It was wooden; the letters were black. I remember analyzing it as I shuffled off the bus, my mind going through the motions of acceptance, making sure to harde … Continue Reading