Concrete Perspectives 2009 Body

Concrete Perspectives Writings From the Newton Correctional Facility Fall 2008-Spring 2009

Thanks to all those who made the Concrete Perspectives possible, and who gave their time, energy, and passion this year at NCF. NCF Staff: Evelyn Oltmanns (Librarian), Cindy Conn (Unsung Hero), Larry Lipscomb (Treatment Director), Terry Mapes (Warden), Jill Dursky (Associate Warden), and Kathy Wilson (Life Skills Coordinator). Grinnell Professors: Grinnell Students: Kathleen Skerrett Susan and Leah (Creative Writing/Reading, Chris French Poetry) Timothy Dobe Rebecca and Camille (Art as Portraiture) Victoria Brown Liting and Yuyang (Calculus & Intermediate Bob Cadmus Math) Tom Moore Ashur and Eric (Creative Writing/Poetry & Erik Simpson White Noise) Henry Rietz Jess and Leah (Life Writing) Leslie Gregg-Jolly Caitlin and Emma (Playwriting) George Drake Emily (Beyond Comics) Eric McIntyre Junayd, Alex, and Ashur (Islam in the ModMike Guenther ern World) Elizabeth Prevost James and Ari (Steinbeck) Tom Simmons Emily and Grant (The Brother Karamazov) Mark Schneider Sarah, Kat, and Rachel (Short Stories) Jonathan Andelson John, Michael, and Gabriel (Beginning/InterElizabeth Queathem mediate Math) Karla Erickson Anna (Gandhi/Desmond Tutu/John Paul II) Lee Running Kelsey (Creative Writing) Sigmund Barber David Campbell Jean Ketter Wayne Moyer Writing Tutors: Betty, Janet, Elizabeth, Carolyn, and Mark A special thanks to: Katie Jares, Marilynne Robinson, Marvin Bell, and Anne Scott. Finally, we would like to thank Emily Guenther and Erik Ritter for their unparalleled compassion and flawless determination in coordinating the Grinnell Prison Education Program.

Some words from the inmate editors: “Imagine…” That was John Lennon’s wish for all of us. I’ve been fortunate to have been involved in editing this publication and in the Grinnell College/NCF program since its inception several years ago. In the beginning, none of us envisioned the magnitude of growth that the program would attain. This volume of Concrete Perspectives is a reflection of that growth, as is the number and variety of classes taught by student volunteers and professors. It is due—in no small part—to the hard work, energy, and spirit of those who make the weekly trek to the prison to teach us. Their lessons go far beyond the handouts, books, discussions, lectures, and assignments. It is through their efforts and generosity that we learn the most. In an environment that can easily bury one’s spirit alive, we have had the gift of imagination given back to us. As you read the pieces in this collection—some dark, some light, all the product of minds trying to find a sense of self and freedom—I hope that your imagination will fly, too. Included are poems, short stories, plays, and essays. The styles and genres vary widely. I hope that you enjoy them all. I also hope that they serve as an inspiration, inviting you to try your hand at writing or any other yen you have dreamt about. I want to profusely thank the many folks who have made Concrete Perspectives come to life. None of this would’ve been possible without the generous support of SPARC. Thank you very much! To all of the Grinnell College students, professors, and guest lecturers—we are eternally grateful for all that you continually give us. Words alone will never be adequate. Emily, you rock… but you knew that. Eric—I see your efforts paying off in dividends of change, unlimited potential, and much success. Katie… well, you’re the standard that we all strive to measure up to. It has been a real privilege. Susan—thanks for your guidance and help in putting this book together! Anne—we miss you and hope to see you soon, pushing us to greater heights and distances. Evelyn Oltmanns—your tireless energy and efforts are amazing. Very few people understand how much you have really invested in the program and in us. The successes are a reflection of that

investment. Jason, you have brought a lot to the program in your role as class coordinator. It’s a difficult job at best and your personality, patience, idealism, quick wit, and humor have made it an experience worth being a part of. I am grateful that you took the reins and helped to drive the program in such a positive direction. Very few people could accomplish what you have. You’re a good man. To my family and friends—Howard, Antje, David, Teresa, and Avis—I wish I could give you a portion of what you have always given me. This has been one of the most influential, positive experiences of my life. As I take personal stock and consider “retirement,” I know that I will sorely miss it all. I see nothing but a bright future for the program because of the people—like those already mentioned— who are willing to put in the time, energy, and work, so that this collaboration only grows. The future looks auspicious. Imagine—just imagine… -Randy Ekstrom Starting with the instructors, who so graciously donate their time and talent, I would like to personally thank two very special groups of people. I once wrote a story about the Grinnell Prison Program, describing the volunteers in the following way: With argyle grieves, sweater-mitten gauntlets, and floral-pattern sleeves, tonight! the Knights of Allodium ride. To me, knights have always been the quintessential heroes. I used the word allodium because it means “freedom land.” Through your noble and compassionate act of teaching, you become our heroes, delivering a piece of freedom to a place where such ethereal things are scare. I wish to thank the Grinnellians for being all that and a bag of baked, organic, low-fat chips (in a recycled container, of course).

And now for the prisoners... Magic exists outside of prison; electric and glorious. Transitioning from a world of freedom to one of ersatz monotony can be spiritually debilitating, transforming a human being into a lifeless automaton. The weight of confinement adds to the gravity of loss, eventually squeezing creativity from the suffering soul, and a razor-wire fence becomes a sieve liberating juice from the fruit. It is then the convict takes a horrible experience and describes it with eloquent prose, proving that there are few things as tragically beautiful as ugly. This state of osmosis results in a new sense of belief in self and reaffirms a truth we always knew: Education is the grand resuscitator of the comatose life. I want to thank all of the prisoners in this book for taking advantage of the tools offered by Grinnell, and for crossing the threshold into a new world of self-actualization and possibilities. -Jason Darrah

From the Grinnell editor: I first became involved with the Prison Program in fall of 2008, teaching Creative Writing to a group of around twelve inmates. I came to the program doubtful about my qualification to teach and unsure what to expect. What I found surprised and inspired me: a group of engaged, insightful students eager to learn and share, whose discussions invigorated me and motivated me to keep coming back. The Concrete Perspectives struck me as the perfect opportunity to get more involved. Being the editor, I had the privilege of seeing a great body of inmate work. The selection process was difficult to say the least. There are some great pieces here, and some great ones that I wasn’t able to include. However, reading the submissions and hearing all these voices gave me great hope—that excellence defies adversity; that freedom of the spirit endures. -Susan Kikuchi

Words from the Prison Program Coordinator: Whenever I’m asked about my work in the prisons, I always say I’m not interested in prisons so much as I am in teaching and learning the liberal arts. And the vitality of the exchange between teacher and student in prison is amazing—it gives life to everyone who participates. Since I first experienced that exchange, I’ve wanted to share it with everyone. This year, I have been blessed to officially spend my days facilitating this learning experience. Thank you, everyone, for coming together to form our unlikely learning community. You have given me a life full of purpose and beauty. -Emily Guenther A special thanks to: Grinnell co-editors: Liting Cong, Lara Glass, Emma Silverman Those who made funding possible: The Peace Studies Program Grinnell Student Government Association Fogfast and its student volunteers Student artist: Noah DeLong

Words from the professors: Every time I go out to Newton, when I see the prison on the horizon, low, grey and surrounded by bales of treacherous wire, I think: I don’t want to go in there. But once in the classroom, when the guys settle in, and we start working through a text—the intensity of their motivation, the profundity of their reflection—restores me to my true vocation. Teaching at Newton enables me to be a dean at Grinnell. I’ve said that to the guys. And then, when class ends, and we leave the prison, I feel like singing all the way home. -Kathleen Skerrett, Religious Studies I thoroughly enjoyed my one experience lecturing at the prison in Newton. The students were incredibly engaged in what I was doing and with this engagement came the kind of classroom experience I enjoy most: when student questions take the discussion a completely different way than I might have intended or expected. We went from a problem in wildlife ecology (estimating a population size through a method involving sampling) to issues of opinion polling and the presidential election that had taken place two days prior to my visit. I was surprised with how plugged into the wider world the students were and how intuitive and insightful their questions were about the interplay between statistical issues and the world problems the statistics is helping to solve. I have found teaching statistics more fun than teaching mathematics because of this strong worldly component and the group at Newton engaged in this aspect of my discipline as well as any of my classes here at the college. -Tom Moore, Mathematics and Statistics

I am teaching History 101, Basic Issues in European History at the prison this spring. This class is one of the most exciting that I have taught in over forty years as a college faculty member. We never get through the planned material because there are so many questions and so much lively discussion. The students are engaged, bright and competent. I’m very glad that I was asked to teach this course for a group of committed and talented students. -George Drake, History The men who heard my presentation on the Amana Colonies were as attentive and engaged as any audience I’ve had. They proved it by asking probing and TOUGH questions. I wish we’d had another hour to continue the conversation. -Jonathan Andelson, Anthropology For me it was a wonderful, exhilarating experience, that shattered my stereotypical expectations. The men were enthusiastic and came to class fully prepared and eager to explore the literary texts at hand. Their serious engagement with the texts and their insightful questions really inspired my own thinking about the readings. I look forward to another such lively interaction with these intelligent and intellectually curious men. -Sig Barber, German One of the things I most enjoyed about teaching at Newton was the diversity of life experiences the men bring to the material. Having a range of students, from young adults to older men with families, for example, enlarges discussions in directions that don’t develop in classes at Grinnell. It was challenging to respond to all the perspectives the men brought, but it was also loads of fun. -Jean Ketter, Education

TABLE OF CONTENTS Lewis Ayala

The Hunt

1

Kenneth Bolen

Brother Raven

3

Randy Ekstrom

Breathe

5

Jason Darrah

Rustoleum

7

Rodney Lampman

Away Too Long

8

Justin DeMoss

The Battle

9

Jayme Powell

Peacefully Resting

10

Stephen Miller

Friendship is Forever

11

Randy Ekstrom

Prison Nights

12

Jayme Powell

Letting Go

14

Robert Matheson

How Fleeting Life

15

Erik Stannard

Where We Are

16

James Shadden

Prayer

17

Jayme Powell

18

Kenneth Bolen

Excluded as a Forgotten Thought The Night my Freedom Died The Astral Planes

Takowa Talley

The Air Blows

21

Stephen Miller

Sunshine

22

Rodney Lampman

19 20

James Shadden

My Prison

23

James Arbogast

The Strongest

24

Rodney Lampan

Early Riser

26

James Shadden

Who am I?

27

Erik Stannard

Burning Love

28

Stephen Miller

Awake

29

Kenneth Bolen

America

30

Shawn P. Shelton

31

Jason Darrah

Watching fish float in a bowl Bizzaloons

Kevin Bruegger

I Don’t Know You

33

Takowa Talley

The Placebo Effect

34

Randy Ekstrom

A Concrete Perspective

35

Chris Levy

Alliyonna

Robert Matheson

38

Tim Petersen

Under the Tee-Kee Lamps An Atlanta Skyline

Takowa Talley

Political Innuendos

44

Burke Frink

House or Mouse

45

Jason Darrah

Villanelly Kelly Sings the Blues

49

32

37

40

The Hunt Lewis Ayala Rising hours before dawn Preparing our weapons and packs With the necessary tools and scentBlockers for the upcoming hunt. These last few days We’ve spotted a couple decent bucks. After all, that’s what this is all about, bucks. Getting up and ready before dawn Glassing for sign in tree lines, cornfields for the last few days. Carrying this heavy pack, Finding the best spot to set up my stand to hunt. Checking the wind so they don’t catch my scent. The trick is staying down wind so they don’t catch your scent. There’s nothing I love better than ambushing a buck. The tracking, stalking, then finally killing them. AHH, the thrill of the hunt. I’ll try this spot for my stand, gotta get set up before dawn Finally, shed this heavy pack This is a perfect way to spend my days. I’ve waited and prepared all year for the return of these days When the does begin to release their scent. So we ready our weapons and prepare our packs We devote all our time towards the bucks They’re the reason we’re in our stands before dawn. It’s rutt season, time for another hunt. I’ve been practicing and preparing all year for this hunt I’ve got this spot picked out and have been watching it for days. I’m finally settled in my stand with plenty of time before dawn. There’s no wind, so no worries about them catching my scent. 1

I’ve seen four does and only a couple bucks Hope I haven’t wasted all this time carrying this heavy pack. Even if I don’t get a monster, it’s still worth toting this pack This long. After all it’s all part of the hunt. Over there’s two does and behind them are those same two bucks. I bet that ones’s the one I’ve been tracking for days, Looks like he’s hot on their scent. If he turns a little it’ll be worth sitting here since before dawn. Well, hunting and tracking for days, Getting up before dawn, putting everything in our packs, Don’t mean shit if the buck catches my scent.

2

Brother Raven Kenneth Bolen Black-leather dove of passion Flying high in azure skies, Your dark radiance captures my Attention, soaring ever so free, Painting the skies as your shadow scrapes the Earth; I seek and summon your thoughts. Stranded in a restless nation, battered, lonesome, stale thoughts; It’s only you who seizes my mind’s eye and propels my passion For writing. Your black eyes of chance always punctuating the Day in effortless perfection as you soar the skies At phantom speeds. Brother raven, free Me, release me from my Mental prison, release me from my Frail and crumpled host of thoughts. Take me upon your wing to the land of freedom, Grand heights; where the wind is heavily breathing passion Which seeps into my skull. Let’s climb through the skies Away from this labyrinth of mediocrity and the Lost souls of society, where the Air is noisy. Brother raven you are my Advocate and sympathizer, let’s soar the skies And never leave a cloud unkissed. Our thoughts Will transcend, saturating the horizon with passionate Sunsets; while nature enhances her beauty freely To the poet within me. Brother raven set me free To roam in your euphoric forest and roost in the Tallest oak tree. Bird of prey, beauty and passion Unearth my art, pluck strings of verse from my Mossy brain and weave our thoughts Into a nest of poems with a serene view of the skies. 3

My art contains no boundaries, just like the skies. Brother raven, It’s you who unlocks my chained consciousness and frees My captive soul; allowing ink to spill my internal thoughts Onto woodland pulp. I want to share with the World my thoughts, my vast wisdom, my Art of verse and my infinite passion. Oh passion winged minister of my thoughts, Renew my weary mind and set me free; Free to the skies…

4

Breathe Randy Ekstrom I don’t like the penitential pen With its sardonic strokes Flogging me in black and blue. The sound of a soul tearing, Like old flesh, Papery and coarse, Is a reminder That life and death can be… One. I breathe the same breath As my brothers and sisters Who sidle by, avoiding my eyes For fear of seeing themselves In my shadowed gaze. I stare Eyes dull with time As some look for redemption, and Some look for serenity, and Others look for love, All in the wrong place. Tucked neatly beneath their folded arms God is carried casually, Like so much luggage, While the Buddha still sits on his ass… Silent. I stare calmly at the truth— I am worse. I am less. I am dead. It’s easy to turn a blind eye To a mirror that peers back at you 5

Every morning Every evening Every time. The burning of a sullen eye, The asthmatic whisper hope, The words are… tough to find. Little changes in the days And days And days And years. It’s the same old bullshit, just a different day— There’s never enough toilet paper. I wanted to say how life is… Better, How hope should never… Die, How important it is to… Rise. Like so much flotsam. I wanted to write Telling, Explaining Giving… But I can’t Lying in this coffin Beneath the heavy lid, Surrounded by expensive trim— It’s hard enough to breath.

6

RUSTOLEUM Jason Darrah Submerged in time, we float suspended, casting golden hues upon the firmament. Beggars beg, takers take, translucent smiles betray opaque, cerulean sins. Hot greed cuts deep between the ribs, splashing canvas crimson red. Lovers torn asunder, a luscious blush for burning umber. Her face, divinely sad, is held captive by the arcing light of blue electric boil. A single platinum tear runs quicksilver smooth, cutting through mascara mauve. We paint the face of God with light of prayers.

7

Away Too Long Rodney Lampman My sweet and loving wife Her pictures that I kiss The memories that we shared The good times that I miss Missing the way she laughs Missing the way she smiles Imagining her soft touch Driving me mad all the while Insane, Depressed, Alone, Afraid This is my life of late Without the love that made me strong My friend my always my soul mate Here I am longing for you Loving every single day and night Being married to my amazing wife Is my one and only true Delight

8

Justin DeMoss THE BATTLE In the dark where shadows dwell I sit alone inside my cell Looking for a light to beam To keep away Satan’s team A light that shines upon my heart To keep my soul pure from the start For in a battle ground I reside Where good and evil make me chose a side For in the dark where tricks are played Satan lurks and plans to stay To corrupt my spirit for my soul And make my heart dark as coal But in the light angels sing For the Lord is there the one true King To guide my path and carry me And keep my body worry free So when the battle starts again I’ll always know where to begin By searching deep down in my soul I know the light’s my one true goal

9

Peacefully Resting Jayme Powell Daniel Scott Powell Troubled soul, striving to do everything right, Refusing the quick and easy, enduring life’s valiant fight, This Honorable Man, whom the meaning of moral fiber is based, Lived with such purpose, while others just filled their space, He pushed and shoved, and drove with his heart, Till finally he lost it, his whole life torn apart, He loved this world, kind to most everyone in it, Had no choice in the end, just lived TRUE till his final minute, This father of three, and brother to five, Uncle to me, Danny’s spirit will always be alive!

10

Friendship is Forever Stephen Miller To me friendship is important as important can be I truly value our relationship as friends I hope you can see If you ever need help you can always count on me The problems we have had no longer really matter Our friendship is still strong even though our relationship was a tatter I’ll do anything for you if you ever needed me to Friendship is forever and should always stay true Life would be much easier and with much less heartbreak If friends were willing to choose the right steps not to take One day I’ll be in Hawaii watching the ocean blue So when your going through life and you ever need a friend Word through a postcard or through the telephone is all you will ever need to send.

11

Prison Nights Randy Ekstrom I fill my ears with music and reruns. I paint my paper with stillborn sounds, Bruised and bloodied by the throes of time. Crimson screams merge with broken whimpers As voices wither into nothingness. Dead echoes. My head swells with whispering Shadows that eternally haunt my dreams. My life breathes out, a grey mist creeping Stealthily through wire that cuts and scrapes. The cold steel strangles me in its grip. As iron smashes against concrete, My fist is clenched against my temples. My heart beats in rhythmic agony, Waiting for the tempo to relinquish. My words flow like blood from a ravaged Wound, spitting and splashing against the wall, Evaporating into quiet nothingness. Music cannot drown out the cries from dank Grottoes full of rue. There is no redemption For the abominable. My mind cannot Release the grip of its memories. The smell of dung beaten into mosaic walls and The curdled blood stained against forgotten lives, Paralyze my nights with their anguished screams. I listen to the throbbing sighs as they move Through my evanescent presence, brushing 12

Against my ribcage and tearing open my heart. The voices of the past claw up my spine, Choking me awake every night. I hear Them all. They deafen me into silence, As they beg for me to listen.

13

Letting Go Jayme Powell is trusting someone to catch you, after you’ve held on for dear life, over the edge of a cliff, while fear is gripping you, harder than you can grasp, just freefalling backwards out of control, opening up to a person you don’t even know, hoping someone cares as much as you do, losing yourself at the hands of another, becoming something you fear, changing your entire being, forgiving a lover after an affair, releasing your resentments, admitting your fears and failures, revealing your insecurities, accepting a fate that has been decided by someone else, its easy really, cause all these feelings, fears, hates, regrets, pains, loves, tangible things we hold on to cause they have meaning, but when you let go, you are free from your own prison, living in a realm of openness without issues, take a moment to look at your palm, it’s that easy yet completely unbearable, opening your hand, can you do it, let go?

14

How Fleeting Life Robert Matheson How fleeting life from cradle to grave— when we live each day like shadows in the mist We disappear with the morning light Like dew at night we leave our mark upon the grass— and with the light we pass unto another day We are shadows from the corner of an eye— here then gone, we pass on by Our lives are fragile as butterfly wings, and soft as a breeze on a summer day We’re here for a moment, then pass a way We are footprints in the sands of time We make no reason—no rhyme! But if we stop to reason why life will wave and pass us by!

15

Where We Are Erik Stannard Here I am, there she is, this is where we are. I hold her hand, gaze at her face, But it’s not the same. Here I am, there she is, now we are apart. The hand is a memory—the face in a picture frame. Here I am, there she is, this is where we are. I used to feel her warm caress, gently touch her skin. Here I am, there she is, now we are apart. Without her touch, is such distress—this is hell I’m in. Here I am, there she is, this is where we are. I hear her voice say my name, but that was way back then. Here I am, there she is, now we are apart. Now I pray to ever hear—her say my name again. Here I am, there she is, this is where we are. I wonder, will love be the same, as it was before? Here I am, there she is, now we are apart. Love the way it used to be—there’s nothing I want more!

16

Prayer James Shadden I can be assured there is a God, I make my requests known to him in prayer. A prayer is but a simple conversation telling him all my needs. My God reveals himself to me in meditation. I have this assurance through my faith. To any who want a strong spiritual faith, all you have to do is believe in God. Take some time alone and meditate, preparing your heart for prayer, bringing to God all your needs. Don’t be overwhelmed, it’s just a conversation. When two friends come together and conversate, sharing their hopes and dreams in faith, your friend begins to know your needs. Let this intimate friend become God. All you have to do is come before Him in prayer, take some time to reflect and meditate. You don’t have to be the Pope or a saint to meditate, our Lord Jesus is more than ready to conversate. One can be in any position when they pray, all you need is a mustard seed of faith. For He is an all knowing and powerful God. Relying on Him will never leave you in need. Anything you feel that is needed, search your heart and soul to meditate, bringing everything forth to God. He is waiting to hear your conversation. All that is required is belief and faith, and He will answer your prayers. 17

Excluded as A Forgotten Thought Jayme Powell Missing your loved ones, while they feel nothing in return, so cold is abandonment, numbing the fiery burn, Trying to forget, the things that matter most, while life is still going, but you are just a ghost, A memory or thought, if you are even that, a piece of past in the present, useless as a broken bat, Living in motion, when time has come to a halt, others go on, leave you with nothing but fault, You question your sanity, while answering yourself, this journey of reason, relentless in itself, Finding peace inside, only comes from release, freedom is attainable, once the pain begins to cease.

18

The Night My Freedom Died Rodney Lampman A dark Thursday night Knocking at the back door The authoritative voice demanding me out Panic in my eyes Fear in my soul Children crying in mother’s arms The burden of truth My heavy shoulders Cold steel upon my wrist Soft caress of my wife’s lips Eager looks of passion and hope A single salty tear Feelings of regret The night my freedom died

19

THE ASTRAL PLANES Kenneth Bolen —Call forth The feathered creatures From the Laurel Tree. —Danu —Mother Moon, Mother of the gods, Allow her cool warmth —to embrace you; —immerse yourself in The Chagall Blue night. —Soar! Over distant lands, ancient cities; Through Past, present and future lives. There are no limits…

—Slowly Breathe in, breathe out —counting breaths. Breathe in, breathe out; —close your eyes, —empty your mind. —breathe, Let yourself go, Feel the vibrations as You separate from your Physical self… —breathe, Breathe deeply; See the colorful lights On the astral plane’s Horizon. Pay no mind to your physical self. Let the vibrations sift you Towards the lights. Don’t be scared! You won’t be lost, —Go! By the gray cord of Infinity, To your body you are Tethered. You must come back The way you went in. —Mabon, God of music, poetry and beauty, —anoint The night with your Strings and bellows, 20

The air blows Takowa Talley Breezing, it has a voice. To all life forms as it blows, humanity listens involuntarily. Bowing to every breezy coaxing every whim this is entity desire. Wind is its name. The force of its grace caress your body on a windy day sending chills up your spine causing your soul to weep softly. Inflicting pain in such a way that only a foggy mist seeps out your mouth to compliment its force. Air escapes no one. So humanity knows it well for reason our anatomy craves. The force that drives within the atmosphere by means of its own metamorphosis. A deity one should worship one should worship considering its cunning ways. it sleeps with your wives& husbands yet cannot be harmed nor is it condemned, simple because its ignored by all but I. As it roams this planet causing havoc I sit in this tranquil library admiring its invisibility knowing it takes my life from me every day and I will live on to catch the ear of that predecessor it choose to have write once again of its mundane methods, or for some…unorthodox reason. So I the doctor give you this pill of knowledge yet you feel invincible when talking to the opposite sex. Thinking back on a time when my hands got so sweet

21

Sunshine Stephen Miller Spangled skies and a moon lit night wishing I was next to you holding you so tight Under these skies I never want the time to end lets stay here until the sunshine becomes our friend Now at this very moment in time your beauty to me is as soft as a wind blown chime Sometimes I sit and picture you in my mind and then I know you really are my sunshine How I wish I was there with you thank god that I know our love is so true I cant believe whoever invented the cloud to be able to call you my woman makes me so proud Not only do you brighten my day i would do anything for you as long as you stay Everlasting like the sweetest tasting wine I am so ecstatic that you are my true sunshine!!!

22

James Shadden My Prison Not those made of bars and stone, The one created by flesh and blood. Locking all these doors one by one So I can retreat to be safe and alone, If I leave just one door ajar I invite one more to add another scar. As the keys of mistrust and fear appear, I begin to seal each lock with yet another tear. Making sure, the doors are sealed shut, Therefore, the guard of shame cannot strut. If anyone does try breaking in, The alarms begin to sound within. I stand on the defense ready and alert, I have to guard myself from anymore hurt. I will look thru these bars to see and question, Does anyone look trusting? Finding the key ring with love and trust, To open any of these doors is a must. When I look in the mirror at myself the warden, Asking myself, will I ever feel again? Only to know I must grant myself a Pardon.

23

The Strongest James Arbogast My grandmother was a very loving and caring person. She had the type of personality—if you met her you couldn’t help but like her. She wasn’t very big, around 5’2’’, never over 100 lbs. The mother of three: two boys, one girl; the sister of twelve; grandmother of ten; great-grandmother of fourteen. A very strong and determined woman; when she owned a bar not a patron got out of lines. She wouldn’t take a second thought about throwing you out, and didn’t need any help at it, taking anyone that got out of line by the ear and taking them outside like they were her own child. Having seen this a couple of times as a child not believing what I saw, these big farmers and hired hands being led outside by my grandmother. They didn’t fight back…they just apologized and begged her to let them stay. She would tell them all the same thing, “Go home and cool off,” and they were welcome to come back tomorrow. And if a fight broke out, which didn’t happen often, she would slam a baseball bat on the bar all would go quiet. She would tell them to stop it or take it outside. Watching this was quite a sight, almost, almost like a lion trainer making those lions do all of those tricks and expecting the big beast to tear them up, but they never do. She could handle herself. I always knew she was tough. We all found out just how tough she really was one spring afternoon in 1983. She was coming back home after taking lunch out to my grandfather and my dad. My grandparents owned an ag-lime and gravel trucking business. She came up over a blind hill; anyone who has traveled Iowa’s gravel roads knows what I mean. At the bottom of the hill was a creek with a small bridge. A couple of teenagers joy riding in their dad’s car while skipping school got a flat and parked right in the middle of the bridge. My grandmother, trying to stop from hitting the kids, hit the brakes and swerved to miss them. The front tire on the truck blew out, the truck started to flip. The police that investigated the scene said that the tools and the 100 gallon fuel tank helped the truck to flip. At some point she was thrown out of 24

the windshield and the truck rolled over her. The police also said that the fuel tank is what probably saved her from being crushed. She was hurt bad enough, both collar bones, two vertebrae in her neck, three vertebrae in her back, and her pelvis broke. She was cut real bad, almost scalped. She made a full recovery. I thought nothing could stop my grandmother. After losing my own mother she was there for me. If I ever needed anything or just needed to talk she was there. The hardest thing I ever had to do was watch her slowly die from emphysema. She fought harder than anyone ever could. It took over ten years for it to take her life. She was the strongest person I have ever known.

25

EARLY RISER Rodney Lampman (for his wife!) Warm, Safe, Content, Unconscious Lying next to my everything Pushing snooze once, twice, three times The heat and friction from our rubbing feet My right arm draped over her Feeling the swell of her breast Awe that sweet musty smell The sleep on us is tantalizingly erotic The soft good morning moans That sexy morning voice Honey it’s time to wake up Every fiber not wanting to move Sitting up in our warm bed My hand patting her behind The walk around the bed A long journey at this hour That sweet soft first kiss Good morning sweet heart The start of another great day

26

Who am I? James Shadden An iron vault leads to my lost soul; I only opened the door just a crack answering the strange call, There was a magnetic force pulling me inside this lonely place; Inside I see open doors, some open wide others barely a trace, No matter the fear, every door I must embrace; To pass even one door allows my demons to control this torturous place, There are many black memories that worked thru in time can be erased; I must build endurance and continue at a very slow and steady pace, One day I will look in the mirror at my face; No longer in disgrace.

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Burning Love Erik Stannard Love, like a fire, burns with desire One, on the skin— The other—deep within! Starting with warmth, a beautiful glow The powers they hold— Continue to grow! Each does great damage, in its own unique way But wherever the burn— The pain—will always stay! Each will leave scars, on different parts of the whole One, on the body— The other—ON THE SOUL!

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Awake Stephen Miller Despair and hate have surrounded me, the cell bars have closed I am locked inside this body of pain and torn flesh As to when freedom will come my way I wait in anguish I am all alone on this deserted island I will soon be nothing more than to falter I have gotten myself into this black abyss deep water or black skies Scratching, clawing, fighting, digging, shortness of breath I can’t see a thing because of all the pressures All of these things that I truly do hate Hopefully they all go away when I awake

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America Kenneth Bolen How beautiful art thou? She used to be a simple place, Your future is here and now, It all seems to be a race, Everything’s been a mess, Disheveled is her dress, I’m amazed you can still even function, Controlled by crooked politics, It’s all about the money, And that Bush, he’s a real prick. Whatever happened to the land of milk and honey?

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Watching fish float in a bowl Shawn P. Shelton As the world goes round. Life, death, sacrifice, resurrection, fills her mind. Searching her soul, its immortality. Is it mortally wounded? Why? Why not? Lust and illusions of love. A woman cries, she whimpers in camaraderie. A hanger…she thought was for hanging coats.

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BIZZALLOONS Jason Darrah On violet vespers you floated true, Bouquet of bees without a sting. Where from came the bizzalloons? Rotoscoping loony toons From jelly beans attached to string. On violet vespers you floated true. Superimposing afternoons With songs that children dare to sing. Where from came the bizzalloons? Your Technicolor neon blooms, An entourage of escorting spring. On violet vespers you floated true. The downtown clowns shuffle their shoes, A brilliant brace of brightened bling. Where from came the bizzalloons? And you, my father, the buffoon, Where are they colors you promised me? On violet vespers they floated through. Where now are my bizzalloons?

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I Don’t Know You Kevin Bruegger I know that you are out there somewhere. I don’t know who you are or what you look like…I don’t know that sound of your voice or the feeling of your skin on my fingertips. I don’t what color your eyes are and I don’t know the color of your hair. I don’t know the sound of your voice or the sound of your breath as you sleep peacefully next to me…I don’t know where you live and I don’t know your name… What I do know is that you are out there somewhere…You are lonely, and you always feel like something is missing, but you haven’t lost anything…You have been in the arms of a few other than me but it still doesn’t feel right…you have even been in a few relationships but they have turned out to be the complete opposite of what you are looking for in love. So you continue searching, looking for that passion and caring and love…That will make you eternally happy and content for the rest of your life…you will continue searching until at last you find me and I find you… Until then I don’t know you.

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Placebo effect Takowa Talley “There are no facts only interpretations” quoted Nietzsche, so I speak only of my theory. The universe is made up of people of the same, excluding the eccentric individuals such as myself. America has a standard for the morals and values of its people. Its all buffoonery in my opinion simply because I see no reason why standards should be put on a nation, granted chaos a quiet moment fop eave, never the less are the political figures, hence stooping to a level beneath the germs that create disease. The placebo effect is the core of Americas image, it consist of the personality’s that are created by experience of social life in America. Placebo has that same affect as the pill which makes you think everything’s ok once you take it. The placebos analogy has is not just similar but synonymous to the vial Words which politicians inject into the minds of the youthful generation. Intelligence alone is based on curiosity. The sad part about that dilemma is that our society trains its people to just trust that the people whom govern our country, our righteous men because there record has no felony or they deceive you into thinking they have the perfect family life. Wondering one might, as to why that last area was covered in my philosophical thought. Its potency bares jewels That are priceless, critically thinking would justify this non hyperbolic statement. Said will lynch. It will go on for a thousand years. The placebo effect last for many year

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A Concrete Perspective Randy Ekstrom Peering through the window, I scan the horizon to the west, taking in as much of the view as the narrow concrete slot in the wall permits. Mounds of unkempt snow have fairly dwindled down into the soft earth, their ghosts resting in frosty puddles. A chilly breeze ripples across the field, disturbing the tranquility, forcing steel fences to quiver in rigid tremors. The sun pours itself onto the scene, its radiance improvising warmth onto the idle grey tables that patiently wait for dominoes and oft-repeated tales. A tired concrete boulevard lies in the dull brown grass, stained with years of grit and plodding footsteps as it circles the prison yard. An assortment of souls wander aimlessly, adorned in grey and blue, like remnants of the Civil War, staring with hardened eyes at a world that lies within sharp lines of demarcation. Far off, past the razor’s edge of the fence, a small herd of cattle stands firmly in the breeze, their heads nuzzling the dark green that erupts from clumps of faded grass. Near them, the blackened heads of Canadian geese rise like stealthy periscopes searching the horizon for enemy ships. A squadron of their brothers drifts gently in from the north, dropping silently from buoyant clouds. Barren trees stand bravely with their backs bowed by winter winds. Like Chinese characters, they stiffly pose outstretched inky limbs, their green buds invisible beneath unpolished armor. Muffled shouts from across the yard filter through the thick glass of the window as comrades call to one another. “Meet me in the weight yard!” “I can’t man—I gotta call my ol’ lady.” “I got class.” In the distance, near a desolate building, two cats—one black and white, the other mottled brown, look up, their eyes searching. They leap to their feet, mewing softly, as they jog cautiously toward a bit of meatloaf carefully tossed in their direction. Beyond the glittering fence, beyond the geese, past the trees—the western horizon beckons to me, a silent voice that fills my 35

heart. I strain to see farther. I hear voices from home: my dad asking me to hand him a crescent wrench; my mom scolding me for eating the cookies before they’ve cooled down; my brothers comparing the Vikings and the 49ers; my sisters listening to two generations of music, giggling. I see my son, his tiny hand clinging to mine for the last time, his blue eyes not understanding. The edge of the world calls to me, perilously distant.

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ALLIYONNA THE ONE WHO’S LEFT TO HOLD MY DREAMS Chris Levy I am troubled by this pain I’ve caused this gift I was given. She is only ten months old and just above two feet tall she has five little teeth and a laugh that drops tears from my eyes. She is my little girl. It’s been almost two weeks since I held her last. Her name is Alliyonna Verlea Ruth Levy. She is my world my life. I held her when she was born, the first one to hold her. I see the air fill her lungs and the color come to her skin as I cut the cord of love that attached her to her mother. Now she’s growing like a rose. Pretty soon she will be a young lady and I will have to let her go. IT WILL BE THE HARDEST THING I’VE EVER DONE. The first time I went away from her it took over a month to see her, then a month for my next visit. Now she comes almost every two weeks to rain havoc on my heart. She brings tears of joy to my eyes every time I see that she has learned something new like when she said dada or hi or took her first steps. I just miss my little angel in and in one hundred and sixty seven days I will be home and this time I will stay.

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Under the Tee-Kee Lamps Robert Matheson Scene: Stars stare down from a black and velvet sky, and a cold white orb hangs silent above an old oak tree. Beneath its bare and crooked boughs sit two people on an old wood and cast-iron deacon’s bench. White clouds of condensed air hang about their heads in the still December air. The only movement comes from the four tee-kee lamps placed around the bench and a slight breeze. Each lamp flickers and gives off an eerie glow of false warmth. Yet, they stand like fierce sentinels against the night. The two people on the bench are huddled together. But to anyone watching, it is obvious that the cold is not the only reason for their closeness. The larger of the two has his arm pressed gently around the shoulders of a young girl. Her long chestnut hair hangs across his arm and disappears into the shadows beneath the bench. Both of them are staring past the flames of the tee-kee lamps and into the darkness beyond. With only a turn of her head she looks up at him and says: Girl: It sure is a beautiful night. Man: Yes it is. A bit cold though. The tee-kee lamps don’t seem to give off as much warmth as they used to. Girl: Times change. But the night is just as clear and the stars are still as bright… Man: Still as bright as what, honey? Girl: The last time we sat under the tee-kee lamps. (Shifting his body slightly, he turns his head toward her with a look of sudden sadness in his eyes—but he remains silent.) Man: Funny, I never thought of it that way. (Pause) What is it telling you, honey? Girl: It’s reminding me that life is fleeting. And it is reminding me to cherish moments like these. (Both the man and the girl sit in silence for several minutes watching the flames of the lamps as they flicker and dance in the cold night breeze.) Girl: Last night I had a dream. In my dream I was sitting alone again 38

under the tee-kee lamps. I dreamt that you had gone to prison again. It was cold—much colder than tonight, and I had no one to keep me warm. (A warm tear slips silently down his cheek and onto her shoulder unnoticed.) Man: It’s just a dream—forget it. Girl: Do dreams come true? Man: Only if you let them. Girl: I don’t want to sit alone again under the tee-kee lamps! (She says with pleading in her eyes). Promise me I won’t ever have to again! (With tears in both his eyes now, he pulls her closer and says:) Man: Honey, I promise you’ll never have to sit under the tee-kee lamps alone again. (Pause) Girl: Can we sit under the lamps tomorrow night? Man: Yes honey—and every night after that for the rest of our lives if you want! Girl: It really is a beautiful night, isn’t it, Dad? (Pulling her closer, he hugs her tight. They both sit quietly under the gentle warmth of the tee-kee lamps and stare into the star-filled eternal night.)

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An Atlanta Skyline Tim Petersen The unruly dogs continued to shout ferocious warnings to one another yard to yard, all directions up and down the alley for what seemed like miles and hours. In the blackness of the night, I slipped through the gate and made my way across the vacant backyard to the rear of the house where I began to scale the wall to reach the second story balcony. It is the same scenario each time I sneak to this healing comfort zone of mine. I have several of these portals across the country, including Kauai and Alaska, but sneaking into this one calls for added caution and peaked awareness. While I listen to the dogs barking and growling from their own back yards I can’t help but wonder whether or not the dogs are reporting that the intruder is light-skinned as well as one of peculiar scent. I am in the heart of Atlanta’s Historical District, which is the heart of Atlanta. It is nearly three o’clock in the morning and there is a very good chance that I am the only human of non-African American descent for many, many miles around. You’d think that I could not afford to be found here, alone, in the middle of the night, yet I walk without concern of being discovered. Tonight, throughout this endeavor I am harmony, in balance and walking in silence and beauty, as they say. I am one-hundred percent native, I am a member of the only existing race there is in this universe, the human race. Just like the name “uni-verse” implies… uni-verse, one song. I come here often. I come here humbled. I come here in supplication with a yearning heart and a need to connect with the alternate, ethereal world of loving kindness and brotherhood. In many places across the country I have located these comfort zones where I seek the refuse of silence. I carry stones to construct personal medicine wheels where my lamenting and seeking visions take place, safely in the protection of my guardian relatives. I am not able to build a medicine wheel here, however, I do perform the symbolic motions of the ritual to honor and invite all my relations, just the same. From the first time I came to this location I knew it was home to me, I felt protection in the reception from all my relations who come before and after me. I know that I have always been here, 40

living, loving, learning leaving, and returning to the familiar, again. Away, for a while, until another woman brings my spirit from the surface of the ocean’s waters and bores me once again into a new body, a new life. Once more, I am the eternal among the mortal, the infinite mingling in the finite. I crawl up onto the roof of the back porch to rest on the balcony where I sit silently in reverence and in complete expectation of visiting knowledge, beseeching the wisdom that has been kept safely in the bosom of the ancients and elders who have long passed. Those who anxiously await for the younger ones to appear, humbly asking for the guidance and wisdom which can only come from the hearts and safekeeping of these respected ones that have gone ahead. I smell the bar-b-que and automobiles while I sit in the dark humid summer heat of the Atlanta dawn. These smells are rolling and blending with the Magnolia, Cherry and Persimmon, and Lilac trees. The traveling aromas blend and bond, from the familiar to the unknown, along with all of my senses they fade from today, to the past. Sounds, sights, and smells of this night suddenly transfer into another world where my heart is waiting for the communion with the company of the elders I am seeking. Sensory perception becomes lucid, taking on a new life related to a time in, and from, memories past. Back and forth my heart and mind are traveling. Listening, learning, and loving these voices of the past which are as real and familiar as my own Mother’s lullaby, as warm and assuring as her breast. I am being loved, cherished and taught by friends and family whom I have no conscious memory of ever knowing. The dogs that sounded the alarms and threatened the intruder only hours ago now know me, it seems they know and recognize this person I am more than I know who I am, sitting here in wonder and elation. I sit and meditate for hours, looking off the porch of this historic home, feeling like I belong here. I feel acceptance and love while I sit here pleading to know and understand what that little boy seen in the Atlanta skyline as he sat here while growing up. I wish to know what inspired him as a twelve year old young man as he sat here with his legs dangling over the edge like me. I question if his Grandfather was aware of all the love, strength, and determination that stirred 41

in his little boy’s soul. I question if his Grandfather ever suspected his little boy carried the dreams and visions of a prophet, one who would one day help transform the hearts of the people in this world. I am told, yes, his Grandfather, a great preacher in his own right, recognized the depth of Truth, Strength, and Love in the eyes of his little boy. Was it this beautiful skyline that convinced this young man that he would do it? Where did his confidence to attempt such a change come from? That is why I come today. I come to surrender my heart to this understanding of love and truth. When the morning breeze begins to kick up with its coolness and I get ready to retreat back to the reality of my mortal life I can’t help but feel the presence of Martin Luther King, Jr. The love and understanding that has been passed down to him through his Grandfather and the others who mentored that sacred life is given to me for sharing, also. Some mornings I smoke a little personal blend of tobacco on this porch, but mostly I am much too overwhelmed by the mystery and sadness of it all. Every time I leave this place of communion I am briefly saddened, I don’t want it to end. I have doubts that I have been given what I came in search of and I want to remain until I hear Martin clearly speak to the depths of my being. It’s all selfish doubts and melancholy. Once I get to my vehicle I know that I have again been blessed. From the presence of inner peace and contentment I know I have made the connection. With a rejuvenated spirit I am walking with Martin’s determination and it is time to go, the birds are singing loudly and with joy. These are life changing moments for me. So subtle, yet so strong are the revelations in my life. It may be days, months, or even seasons before an incident reveals a new heart in me. I may be in discussion or thought concerning life and/or creation and our relationship with its obligation to it, or to each other, when I am struck by a quiet or revolting epiphany. For a moment, I do not know or remember when I had begun to think this way, but it seems natural and clear to me now, then another familiar sensation overcomes me and I am reminded of mornings on Martin Luther King’s balcony, or words he spoke in a public address and it is clear to me where this 42

ancient wisdom living in my newly invigorated heart has come from and I remember a piece of creation’s blessing, one splendid little moment that unfolded for my eyes only, like the morning with the birds singing to me with joyful declarations, and I know. I don’t know how, but I believe I know. Until it is absolutely clear to me I’ll continue to think it was in the view of the awesome Atlanta skyline. As long as I walk this side of life I’ll continue to sneak up onto that balcony every chance I get when I am in Atlanta. Such a memorable skyline! Thank you, Martin.

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Political Innuendos Takowa Talley I do not condone violence yet I do value its affects, moreover I respect Avakian but I admire Castro for his demeanor of action, and nothing more. Hate those demands I don’t, admire there ruthless intellect, inevitable. Understand you cant hate the nature of these pest its all they know. Crude is a gentle word for the smiles they issue on press release basking with gleeful delight at the innuendos entwined in the statements they wrote. As for us a community this is intolerable. If political actives emulate the dictatorship of our government we would be considered average in our own minds therefore we must emulate tactics such as the queen of England. They say you need credentials of higher learning to be successful, explain Shaka Zulu or Winston Churchill better yet Hitler. To know history is to know thy self. 74% of the worlds population only uses only uses only three to five percent of there brain. my fellow brothers & sisters lets grab the world by its axis and demonstrate a ten point one for the rector scale.

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House or Mouse Burke Frink Characters: Levi, 25, real estate agent Jacob, 26, Levi’s business partner and best friend Old lady/Lena Scene: Levi and Jacob’s small realty office. There are two desks facing each other—one against each wall—a filing cabinet next to Levi’s desk (to the left of the audience) and water cooler next to Jacob’s. The walls are plastered with pictures of houses and property for sale. There is window upstage and we can see it is raining. As the scene opens, we find Levi standing, staring out the window; Jacob is talking on the telephone.) Levi (to himself): God, I hate this weather. Hasn’t stopped raining in three days. Jacob (cheerfully): Well, Levi, old buddy, old friend of mine, we finally managed to unload that three-story monstrosity over on Arclight. (He rubs his hands gleefully.) And, for a hefty commission, I might add. (He leans back and puts his feet on the desk.) Not a bad way to start the day, eh? Levi (absentmindedly): It’s been raining cats and dogs for three days straight with no end in sight. God, I hate this weather. (Levi walks to his desk, sits with a loud sigh and hangs his head. Jacob goes to Levi’s desk and sits on the edge.) Jacob: Why so glum, chum? You, of all people, oughta be on top of the world. Just think, kiddo, in two days you’ll be marrying the girl of your dreams. (He leans forward and claps Levi on the shoulder). And, just think, with business going so well, you can take Lena to Japan for your honeymoon. Levi: That’s if there is a wedding. Jacob: What do you mean, “if ”? Of course there’s going to be a wedding. I’ve never seen two people as crazy about each other as the two 45

of you. So, why would you think you weren’t getting married? Levi (in a choked voice): She’s gone, man. Nobody has seen her for three days and I am really starting to get worried. The rehearsal dinner is tonight, and it’s like she’s vanished off the face of the earth. (Pause. Deep breath.) Hell, her parents don’t even know where she is. Jacob (encouragingly): Cheer up, man. I’m sure everything will work itself out. (He goes back to his own desk.) Only advice I can give you is try not to think about it, and stay focused on business. (He looks up as the door opens.) Right now, we have a customer. (Old woman enters. She is an odd mixture of wealth and bag lady. Her hair and nails give the impression of a woman just coming from a beauty salon. On the other hand, the floor-length coat and red unbuttoned rubber boots she is wearing—as well as the patched, over-sized canvas bag slung over her shoulder—makes her look like she has been dumpster diving. Going to Levi’s desk, she sits down and sets her bag on the floor.) Old Woman: Excuse me, young man, I would like to buy a mouse. Levi (Not sure he heard right): Come again, ma’am? Old Woman: What do you mean, “come again”? I am not leaving. I only just arrived. Levi (clearing his throat nervously): Yes, ma’am. Sorry, ma’am. Now… Old Woman (interrupting): Young man, stop calling me your mother. I am not your mom. Levi (taking a deep, calming breath): What may I do for you? Old Woman: I would like to buy a mouse. (Jacob gets up and walks over to join the conversation. He sits on the edge of Levi’s desk, leaning forward so the Old Woman can hear him.) Jacob: I’m sorry, but we don’t sell mice. Old Woman: Why, thank you, dear. (She pats his cheek.) I think you’re nice too. 46

Jacob (exasperated): Madam, this establishment is not a pet… Old Woman (interrupting): Of course it’s wet, you nitwit. In case you haven’t noticed, it is raining cats and dogs out there. Jacob: I was just going to say this is a realty office. Old Woman: I know that, silly boy, that’s why I’m here (pause) about my kitty. (She turns back to Levi. When she does, Jacob draws circles around his ear…the universal sign for “NUTCASE!”) Levi: I really am sorry we can’t be of any help to you. (He picks up phone.) Perhaps I could call someone. Old Woman (shocked): Gun! Goodness, gracious, no! I don’t want to buy a gun. I want to buy a mouse for my kitty. (Before Levi can reply, the Old Woman opens the canvas bag at her feet, pulls out a dead cat that’s been stuffed and mounted, and places it on Levi’s desk. Startled, Levi jumps up, knocking over his chair.) Levi (gasping): Good Lord, woman! What the hell is that…that… thing? (Old Woman pets the dead cat.) Old Woman: Why this is my kitty. Isn’t she just precious? Levi: Lady, would you kindly get that disgusting thing off my desk. Jacob (breaking in): Now, hold on just a minute, Levi. Now that the cat is out of the bag…so to speak…I think I know what is going on here. (He turns to the old woman.) If I am not mistaken, you want to buy a mouse for a house with cat like that. Old Woman (Beaming): Exactly. Jacob: And, would you like some cheese to go with that mouse? (The Old Woman claps her hands excitedly, like a little girl given a birthday gift.) Old Woman (gleefully): Oh, yes, yes; and a little pink ribbon tied in a bow around its neck. That would look sooo cute. Levi (in disbelief): What the hell are you two babbling about? Are you both nuts? 47

Old Woman (fanning herself): Oh, do be quiet, dear, and get me some water, please. It is dreadfully hot in here. (Levi moves out from behind his desk.) Levi (muttering to himself): Gladly (pause) if it’ll get you out of here any sooner, you old dingbat. (When his back is turned to them, the Old Woman and Jacob exchange grins and give each other the thumbs up.) Jacob: You might be more comfortable if you took off your coat. (The Old Woman stands and removes her coat and, at the same time, the wig she is wearing. The audience now sees she is not old, but a shapely young lady. This is Lena. Still holding the wig, she moves silently to stand behind Levi who is filling a paper cup full of water.) Lena (still in voice of Old Woman): While you’re being so helpful, would you be a dear and have this deloused. (She drops the wig on Levi’s shoulder.) I’m afraid my poor kitty has fleas. (When he sees what is on his shoulder—acting like someone has dropped a poisonous spider on him—Levi drops the cup of water on the floor, lets out a little scream, spins around trying to wipe off the wig. When he sees Lena standing in front of him, he looks like he’s seen a ghost.) Levi (in shock): Lena?! (Levi faints.) END SCENE.  

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Villanelly Kelly Sings the Blues Jason Darrah When my heart was sad and bent me twain, I felt like I was through. Villanelly Kelly, what did you do?

Cracked in half, I fell for you. Left alone on my broken throne, lunar dancing, breathing thick cobalt blue.

You sang a song so true...

You sang a song so true...

And the birds, they split in two, muzzled their beaks and silenced their feet, so they could hear twice as much of you.

You placed your bow against my leg, and played until it sawed right through, leaving me without a single clue.

You sang a song so true...

You sang a song so true... You played me for a fool.

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Author Bios James Shadden: Writing allows me to put some thoughts on paper. It gives me the opportunity to express myself without confrontation. J. Powell: Writing momentarily frees me from the reality I live in. I like taking breaks sometimes, exploring different experiences. Rodney D. Lampman: I am a 32-year-old husband. I have 4 daughters and a great family. We all live in Des Moines, Iowa on the South side. At the moment I am serving a 25 year sentence. I have always loved poetry and higher learning. I write for my family and friends, mostly for my wife Danette though. Eric A. Stannard: I never “try.” To try means: to attempt without success. I do it. I may not do it well at first, but I never quit, and I always strive to do it better. I give it all to succeed, and I do it all for the ones I love. Burke Frink: I use my writing to prove to myself, and the world, that I am smarter than a monkey. Problem is, I only end up proving the opposite. Robert Matheson: I miss the simplicity of youth, my children, and a good steak. I find it hard to find the words to thank all the Grinnell volunteers for everything they have meant to me and others—except to say: you have inspired me to be a better person, and to remember that Yeats was right, “Life is a circle.” Never forget that. Jason Darrah: My older brother once made me eat a whole handful of butter-flavored Crisco. My experience with Grinnell has been the opposite of that. Lotsa danke schöns. Kenneth Bolen: Finds comfort in scrawling poems about the songs of trees, whispers of stones, language of flora and fauna, and distant journeys; unfolding infinite fathoms of Earth, Space, and Time. My inspiration comes from my two great kids (Bret and Britta), family, friends, and nature. 50

Justin DeMoss: I like to write to express how I feel and because it allows me to be creative. Tim Petersen: For many years I have known that I carry a message to share and my only option is learning to write because I really can’t sing and no one listens to me when I talk. Takowa Talley: I write poetry and philosophy because it gets me away from prison life; it also allows me to express myself in ways that only I can understand. My first name was given to me by my aunt who is half Tongan. My aunt told me of an ancient warrior of her ancestral heritage named Takowa, meaning, “The Great One.” My purpose for this story is to allow definition to the pieces you might read from me; they may one day be famous! Joseph Riffey: I have five shining sons (Josie, Dakotah, Dylan, Dalton, and Gabriel) who light up my life and inspire me from a vast world inside my heart. I love you and think of you every single day. Waiting…always waiting to see you again. Stephen Miller: I have triplet daughters and a son. I enjoy writing poetry and short stories. I was born in Oahu, Hawaii. J.K. Bruegger: I am 25 years old. I enjoy writing because it clears my mind and helps to relieve stress. Writing has no boundaries, just your imagination which makes it a great outlet. Lewis Ayala: This is the last place I ever thought I’d see something I wrote, glad I gave it a shot. Randy J. Ekstrom: To DJ, whose words have helped teach me to write…to breathe freely. James Arbogast: I write because it is easier to express my feelings on paper than trying to express them with spoken words. Christopher Levy: Everything I do is for the love of my daughter, Alliyonna, whom I cherish above all things in life. 51