The Illustrative Power of Letters
Welcome to Purrport-your passport to the curious, the cozy, and the cattily clever. Here, tales stretch, purrs linger, and every entry carries a whisker of wonder. Whether you’re chasing stories, secrets, or sunbeams, you’ll find your place on this patchwork page of paws and possibility. |
|
Step into the storm of revolution-one grievance at a time. This page traces the 27 sparks that lit the fire of American independence, pairing each with reflections on freedom, justice, and the unfinished work of democracy. History speaks-we’'re here to listen, learn, and respond. |
|
|
Stories: West, Bourgeois 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. |
Art Walls 2013: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Spring |
Summer |
Autumn |
Winter |
|
Story: Bickerstaff, Memi, Buckert
Zelda’s kitchen mishap==a kettle boiled dry while she polished a book--leads to more than wasted words with her husband, Jack. As they navigate the trivial and the tender, this quirky tale explores the power of everyday moments and the unexpected warmth found in life’s simple missteps |
|
On a city bus, a delicate dance unfolds between strangers--a businessman, a derelict, and a barista--all working to preserve a fragile possibility on the brink of becoming something real. As perception wavers and reality shifts, the potential for transformation teeters on the edge, waiting to be realized. |
|
Geoffrey, haunted by his father's absence, uncovers the truth about his biological dad's troubled past. As their connection grows, hope emerges, but betrayal and addiction resurface. Geoffrey must choose between the man who left and the father who’s always been there. Secrets come to light. |
2012 Magzines
Fiction: Allen, Dean, Majumdar
n His Candle Bright, My Fickle Flesh, Christopher Allen paints a vivid and introspective narrative about attraction, curiosity, and missed connections. The protagonist is drawn to a mysterious classmate, observing him closely but never directly engaging. Through vivid details-sand-washed jeans, flip flops, and the scent of fabric softener-the story explores the quiet tension of unspoken desires and the fleeting nature of human interactions. |
|
The Ones by Tommy Dean is a poignant reflection on choices and the roads not taken in a relationship. The narrator and their spouse, freshly married, face a life-altering decision: pursue dreams of success or embrace parenthood. The narrative captures the tension between ambition and attachment, painting a picture of a couple who choose the former but ultimately wonder if the path they forsook-raising a family-might have been their true "big break." |
|
The Hideaway Bed by Shreyasi Majumdar delves into the haunting, painful memories of a narrator who seeks retribution for years of abuse. In a moment of calculated violence, he kills his abuser, Uncle Hamid, while reflecting on the silence and complicity of family tradition. Majumdar’s narrative explores themes of betrayal, suppressed trauma, and the complex emotions surrounding justice and guilt, making this a dark and powerful exploration of hidden family secrets. |
2008 Art Wall, (Archive)
Editor: Maia Cavelli |
|
|
|
|
Poetry: Managan, Walters, Bittner
Managan's poem is rich with layers, offering a critique wrapped in the beauty and violence of a landscape that's both inviting and repelling. |
|
Walters' poem is a tribute to the power of nature, history, and human connection. It invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and the landscapes that hold significance in their lives. |
|
Through its evocative imagery and emotional depth, "Flight 103 to Lockerbie: Happy Anniversary" captures the complex interplay of personal and collective memory, the beauty and violence of nature, and the enduring impact of loss. |
Barry, Nero, Reese
Bird Watching |
|
The Abyss of Human Illusion |
|
Sometimes |
Short Stories: Robinson, Hamilton, Burke, Faison
Archie's adventures and misadventures, from his initial quest for a dime to his interactions with various characters in his community, reveal a society where children are forced to mature quickly, facing realities that test their ingenuity and moral compass. View Link
|
"Explore Artist at Work" by William Reese Hamilton, a gripping tale of love, art, and transformation. Dive into a complex relationship set against a backdrop of urban decay, where art becomes a metaphor for connection and self-discovery. A narrative rich in emotion and psychological depth. View Link
|
"Epic" serves as a meditation on the nature of creativity, the solitude often required for profound thought and work, and the complex relationship between an artist and the society that surrounds them View Link
|
|
"Gemini in Twilight" by Galen R.Faison weaves a poignant narrative that navigates through the realms of family legacy, the resilience born out of struggle, and the indelible marks left by our ancestors View Link
|
12 Steps
As a follow-on from my Magna Carta posts, these 12 steps are my leg-up to understanding the two great legal traditions that shape our lives in the West. Some of you might find them useful, too.
I made this image with the AI, there are a few typos and they won't clean up so ...(just saying -- mea culpa) I had reason to figure out a little bit about the systems in 1998 ... and I was reminded of it last week as I was reading that the Spanish Governement are creating a new property based law that will affect the sale and rental market that will be enforceable by the civil law courts for 80 years and it will be to the letter. So here we go...
Civil Law vs. Common Law - legal systems that influence how we rent homes, sign contracts, protect our creative work, and even speak about justice.
Knowing the difference helps us better understand how power is structured, how fairness is defined, and what rights we have.
Since the unfortunate exit of the UK, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus are the only three countries within the EU governed by Common Law ..
Pay it Forward: Magazines and Poetry Books for Sale
Short Stories: Robinson, Hamilton, Burke, Faison
Archie's adventures and misadventures, from his initial quest for a dime to his interactions with various characters in his community, reveal a society where children are forced to mature quickly, facing realities that test their ingenuity and moral compass. View Link
|
"Explore Artist at Work" by William Reese Hamilton, a gripping tale of love, art, and transformation. Dive into a complex relationship set against a backdrop of urban decay, where art becomes a metaphor for connection and self-discovery. A narrative rich in emotion and psychological depth. View Link
|
"Epic" serves as a meditation on the nature of creativity, the solitude often required for profound thought and work, and the complex relationship between an artist and the society that surrounds them View Link
|
|
"Gemini in Twilight" by Galen R.Faison weaves a poignant narrative that navigates through the realms of family legacy, the resilience born out of struggle, and the indelible marks left by our ancestors View Link
|
Voices Against Silence: O'Sullivan, Bratten, Meek
"Kindred" invites reflection on how closely tied we are to the whims of fate, the shared vulnerability of all human beings to sudden change, and the profound impact of loss. It is a meditation on the connections between us, sometimes forged in the most tragic of circumstances, and the indelible marks left on the living by those who depart unexpectedly. View Link
|
|
The poem "Fantastically Raw With Hatred" by April Michelle Bratten is a powerful exploration of anger and its cathartic release. Through vivid imagery and intense emotional language, Bratten delves into the complex nature of anger, not merely as an emotion to be feared or suppressed but as a force that can be both destructive and purifying. View Link
|
|
Gemma Meek has crafted a deeply moving and resonant work that invites readers to reflect on themes of visibility, identity, and the longing for change and recognition. Its a powerful reminder of the unseen struggles that many face and the profound impact of family dynamics on individual lives. View Link
|
Story: Gilkes, McClay, Sheehan, Flys
Through Harry's story, Gilkes celebrates the joy of discovery, the warmth of human interactions, and the inevitable intertwining of luck and skill in the pursuit of one's interests. |
Matchsticks not Money by Deirdre McClay, is a poignant tale of family, grief, and legacy set against an Irish backdrop. Follow Maire's homecoming journey, navigating complex relationships and personal growth amidst loss. A story of reconciliation and finding one's path |
V for Victor by Tom Sheehan is a mesmerizing tale of friendship and mysterious talent, following Victor's inexplicable, divine-like singing gift that surfaces every five years, leaving those around him in awe. A story of wonder, destiny, and the unexplainable magic within the mundane. |
Explore the symbolic journey of Road to Golgotha by Yvette Flys, a tale of legacy, temptation, and redemption. Delve into a reimagined biblical quest where a son's mission intertwines with myth, revealing deep reflections on life, death, and the human spirit |
|
Storytellers: Sky, Coughlan,, Freese, Asante--Illustrations: Dom Capobianco
In "Spring, a Girl" by Jennifer Sky, Spring lies in a field, her white silk dress draped around her, waiting for her lover. As evening falls, she dreams of love and connection to heal past wounds. Surrounded by blooming clover and playful dogs, she longs for Fall, a boy with soft curls, to join her and reignite her sense of beauty. Published in The Linnet's Wings, Fall 2010. |
In "The Red Couch," set in 1970s Buenos Aires, Adriano, a furniture restorer, uncovers a tragic love story while repairing an 18th-century French couch. Hidden letters reveal a forbidden romance between Jorge Flores, a famous tango musician, and his cousin Jennifer, leading to heartbreak and untimely deaths. The discovery ties the past to the present, weaving love, loss, and secrets.
|
In "Sweet Cotton," Clarence, a devoted father and chicken farmer, faces the bittersweet reality of his daughter Gracie's wedding and departure. Haunted by memories of his late wife, Clarence discovers a mysterious angel dust after the ceremony, sparking a sense of hope and belief in miracles. A tale of love, loss, and the gentle comfort of unexpected wonders. |
In "Branded" by Shola Olowu Asante, Matt's quiet life is upended when his old flame, Chloe, shows up unannounced, seeking solace from her latest heartbreak. Torn between his past with Chloe and his new relationship with Eve, Matt struggles to resist Chloe's manipulative charm. As tension rises, Matt faces an emotional battle, revealing deeper scars and unresolved feelings that threaten his stability. |
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: Sheehan, Jensen and Smith
"Sign on a Wall" by Tom Sheehan is a nostalgic poem depicting a worn dough board, symbolizing a mother's labor of love in bread-making. It evokes memories of family, tradition, and the passage of time, blending sensory details with a deep sense of longing and reverence |
Exploring the ephemeral space between day and night, 'Down The Crack With The Crickets' by Kristine Jensen delves into the fleeting nature of thoughts and emotions. An angry thought disappears with the wind, symbolizing lost moments and the struggle to reclaim them. |
Explore the poignant poem Mates by Iain C. Smith, dedicated to Jake and Patrick. Reflecting on the sudden loss of a young life, it intertwines themes of grief, camaraderie, and the fleeting nature of youth, as experienced through the lens of a soccer match metaphor. |
"Explore the evocative poem 'Pipedream' by Iain C. Smith. A vivid blend of memory and observation, it captures a moment of reflection amidst a storm, evoking nostalgia and introspection about family, past experiences, and the transformative journey of life. |
|
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. |
Buy Here
Book One: High Hedges |
Book Two: Indigo |
The Crafts |
Price, West, Tepper, Joslin
n "Fungi Light / Fungi Language," Darryl Price contemplates the interconnectedness of life, sitting in the dark of his kitchen, reflecting on how mycorrhizal fungi connect everything, much like music's universal language. Amidst thoughts of light, love, and cosmic connections, he finds solace in nature's quiet reassurance that everything is working as it should, despite life's uncertainties. |
In "Painting the Sky," Bill West tells the poignant story of a man's lifelong connection with the sky. As he recalls childhood dreams, young love, and moments of fear, the sky remains his constant companion. Now, facing an uncertain fate, he finds solace in memories of cloud gazing and the endless expanse above. A moving reflection on life, time, and the enduring beauty of the sky. |
In "Next to Rock," Susan Isla Tepper paints a haunting scene of darkness and isolation. Amidst blue shadows and chilling hands, the narrator's inner turmoil unfolds beside Petrov's laughter by the fire. Struggling with feelings of shame and despair, the narrator seeks comfort and perfection for Petrov while grappling with their own descent into darkness and cold. |
In "Memoire," Oonah V Joslin paints a nostalgic picture of a woman reflecting on her cherished childhood memories in a sun-drenched corner of her grandparents' home. Surrounded by scents of herbs and the warmth of terracotta, she recalls family gatherings, wartime tales, and the simple joys of life. As a resistance fighter, these memories gave her strength, anchoring her forever in her beloved past. |
Art Walls 2014: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Spring |
Summer |
Autumn |
Winter |
|
Essay: Martin Heavisides
Heavisides presents a fresh perspective on the legendary figure William Blake, challenging long-held perceptions that have confined Blake's genius to the realm of literature alone. |
|
This work is an exploration of a playwright who dared to venture where few others have, merging the realms of historical and fantastical with a contemporary edge that remains as relevant today as it ever was.
|
|
In this play, Heavisides masterfully crafts a narrative that is not just a story to be told, but a philosophical exploration to be experienced. "Empty Bowl" is a compelling invitation to explore the depths of our own existence and the intricate connections that bind us to the world and to each other. |
Poetry by Paul Hostovsky and Art Selection (2013)
Aubade uses these vivid personifications and contrasts to create a playful yet poignant commentary on the nature of enthusiasm, routine, and perhaps the human tendency to become jaded or unappreciative of the everyday wonders of the world.- |
|
This section of the website displays original illustrations and details their use in various literary contexts. For more information and to view the artwork, you can visit the page by clicking on the imagge. Thanks! |
|
Hostovsky writes about the allure of poetry and the arts, and how they can inspire us to make choices that might not seem logical but are deeply appealing to our sense of beauty and romanticism. |
Hamilton, Joslin, Ferraro, Zambrano (Short Translation)
Explore the forbidden summer ritual of Ginny and Dean in 'Moon Goddess' by Ginger Hamilton. Amidst fireflies and bats, they confront their growing feelings and the harsh realities of youth, weaving a tale of love, rebellion, and myth under the spell of the night sky. |
Oonah V Joslin explores her connection to Seamus Heaney's legacy, delving into cultural, linguistic, and personal parallels. Reflecting on 'Beowul' and Irish identity, she uncovers shared roots and the impact of Heaney's work on understanding her heritage and language. |
Explore the tragic tale of Cecilia, a young woman confined in an asylum, in 'AIR' by Emilia Pardo Bazan. This poignant story, translated by Diana Ferraro, delves into the depths of love-induced madness and the poignant struggle between reality and delusion. Witness Cecilia's journey as she clings to the belief of being 'air,' a metaphor for her unrequited love and ultimate escape. A profound commentary on the human psyche and the power of love. |
Explore the ethereal realm of dreams in 'Geografia de la Aurora' by M. Zambrano. Delve into the vivid imagery of emerald caves and nameless colors, where the dreamer's touch lingers and reality blurs with memory. Experience a serene, effortless existence, free from longing and fear, akin to a deer resting peacefully in nature. |
|
Poetry: Mickelson and Graham
In a humid August kitchen, blue jays squawk as cucumbers, onions, and garlic lie in preparation for pickling. The search for canning supplies consumes days, while memories of a mother's past canning intertwine with reflections on inherited traits and parenting. |
|
At a grave, the narrator receives a box of ashes, the remains of a loved one. Struggling to find poetry in the moment, they recount the cremation process and the stark reality of loss. |
In "When the Morning is a Prayer," Kathleen Cassen Mickelson captures the serene beauty of a winter morning in Minnesota. The poem unfolds like a series of cherished gifts: |
"Ghost" by James Graham is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of memory and loss. In the quiet aftermath of a loved one's passing, the poet describes the emptiness of a house once filled with life and conversation. As time passes, memories of the departed begin to resurface vividly--their eyes, voice, and laughter lingering like a comforting ghost. Graham's poignant verses capture the enduring presence of those we have lost, transforming grief into a gentle daily companion that brings solace and quiet strength. This poem is a touching tribute to the enduring power of love and memory. |
Walters, Bittner, Walters
Old convertible, top down, and I don't mind my hair blowing In the wind. He likes that. The dirt road is rutted, dusty, curvaceous as a sidewinder. |
|
In the druse of a rock, in a bed by a stream,/I remember how we'd plan, and I relish how we'd scheme,/search for sloughs in the rock, slither down upon a beam,/and without a worry split through the cracks to a dream ... |
|
There is silence in the cold morning air./Snow over red rock, green juniper dusted with sugar./The world is a frosted wedding cake.//It is the Grand Canyon in winter, our third anniversary |
Writing Short Fiction
Bruce Harris's “A Questionnaire Challenge" targets aspiring writers looking to commit seriously to short fiction. The article introduces a series of self-assessment questions to help writers gauge their readiness and knowledge of the short fiction genre before diving into expensive courses or ambitious projects. From reading habits to understanding submission guidelines, Harris's questionnaire offers a practical, introspective tool for writers to identify strengths and areas for improvement. |
|
In this insightful interview, Jonathan Taylor, a novelist, memoirist, and lecturer in creative writing, discusses his love for short fiction, its challenges, and its unique rewards. Taylor emphasizes the art of compression, the importance of capturing intense emotions in brief moments, and the significance of reading widely to improve one's craft. He views short fiction as an independent discipline, rich in musicality and oral storytelling traditions, rather than a mere stepping stone to novel writing. |
|
In Static by Alison Moore, Wilfred reflects on his marriage to Dorothy, who is now bedridden and battling illness. Wilfred, a man of routine, finds comfort in repairing old things, including the radio that first brought Dorothy into his life. As Dorothy dreams of travel and romance, Wilfred focuses on keeping their life in order, quietly cherishing the memories they've built, even as time and illness threaten to dismantle them. |
Zelnick: Dwindling: the Shrinking Citizen
John Milton never attended a Trump rally, but Paradise Lost depicts satanic demagogy and citizens dwindled to mere onlookers, overwhelmed by giant voices. In the great hall of Pandemonium, the rebels against God gather to decide next steps. Giant angels, now tarnished by betrayal, swarm into the vast auditorium. They are too large to fit; Satan downsizes them |
|