TS Eliot's "Ash Wednesday"- an annotated version

     Tomorrow marks the start of Lent for Western Christians. Regardless of one's spirituality, or lack thereof, I think that everyone would agree that it is good to take some time to pause and reflect on the type of people we are and how we are not all that we would like to be. As Martin Luther said, whatever we strive for can become our god, so there are no atheists. In my Army chaplain days every so often someone wold announce his or her atheist status, to which I would calmly ask if the soldier was a devout atheist.

     The Eliot poem reflects his own journey to Anglo-Catholicism.

https://genius.com/Ts-eliot-ash-wednesday-annotated

Wonderful Event Roday

     This year's Local Author Showcase at the Richland County Public Library Main Branch, Columbia, SC, was wonderful! I saw old friends, made new ones, made some connections, and sold some books even!

     I was glad to meet Blythewood author Karen Bobrow; she is from New Jersey and we both come from Eastern European backgrounds. Her blog is on my reading list for my blog.  Do Svidanya Dad is the name of her book and blog.

Local Author Event tomorrow!

http://www.richlandlibrary.com/event/local-author-showcase-2017

     Two years ago I went to this event with a book soon to be released. Last year I had it available, as I do this year. Next year, there will be another book, and maybe a chapbook as well!
      By far the best thing is meeting people; seeing friends and making new ones. If you cannot come, and of course most of you cannot, then share my joy. If you would like a signed copy of Places and Times, I can certainly assist you!

Another poem in a Coming MUSED BellaOnline

I will be published here again. Here's a link to my first one in this fine publication.

http://www.bellaonline.com/review/issues/fall2016/p016.html

http://www.richlandlibrary.com/event/local-author-showcase-2017

Two books next year, maybe three!  If you want a signed copy, contact me please!

Whitman Novel Found!

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/feb/21/walt-whitmans-lost-novel-the-life-and-adventures-of-jack-engle-found

    Not every poet has a bridge named for them! Walt's connects Camden, New Jersey (he lived there) to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.   Interesting story.

Wonderful Book Launch!

    Fantastic book Launch for Poets Respond to Race Anthology from Muddy Rivers Press. Al Black and Len Lawson piloted the concept and lead the way in talking about race. They urged us to continue the process as best we can. And I encourage you!

   I am honored to have been included in the book and as their friend.