In The City Shrugs, Akeith Walters captures a poignant winter morning, where frosty dew and long shadows paint a stark, crystal-shard landscape. The city, framed through a frosty attic window, becomes an indifferent observer--its busy skyline contrasts with the bitter wind and voiceless souls seeking warmth, embodying the weight of unmet expectations and the chill of human isolation.

In Silvering the Planet, Akeith Walters paints a poignant portrait of EarthFs quiet mourning. Sunset hues blend into silver starlight as the planet reflects on its past vitality, now overshadowed by humanityFs impact. With vivid imagery, the poem juxtaposes natureFs enduring beauty with the intrusion of manmade decay, evoking both reverence and lament for a world burdened by neglect.

In They Can Always Eat Stubborn Collard Greens, Akeith Walters weaves a somber reflection on climate changes relentless toll. Through vivid imagery of withering East Texas pines, dusty landscapes, and fragile remnants of life, the poem captures a world in decline. Yet, amidst the loss, the stubborn collard greens endure, embodying resilience and defiance against a hotter, harsher future.

Chekhov's Dark Comedy, Stephen Zelnick explores the enigmatic nature of The Seagull, a play Chekhov envisioned as comedy but layered with despair, cruelty, and unfulfilled lives. Zelnick examines Chekhov’s nuanced storytelling, which mocks genre conventions, embraces subtle irony, and resists tidy conclusions. The essay celebrates Chekhov's artful portrayal of flawed humanity amidst societal decline.

In Picture on Picture, Mari Fitzpatrick captures the lively interplay of nature and imagination through a vivid cat-and-mouse chase by a rain barrel. Blending humor and reflection, she contrasts the raw vitality of the pursuit with the serenity of a garden setting. The piece evolves into a poetic exploration of movement, tension, and the delicate balance of life in its fleeting moments.

In The Mandylion, Joe Giordano intertwines art, danger, and family dynamics through the lives of Anthony and Valentina Provati. This gripping excerpt sets the stage for a high-stakes narrative as Anthony, a Manhattan art dealer, is drawn back into a dangerous world by Sophia, an alluring figure from his past. With Valentina’s sharp wit and FBI expertise, the siblings navigate temptation, loyalty, and the shadowy underbelly of the art world.

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.

In Zelda and the Kettle, Samantha Memi humorously captures the quirks of everyday life through the lens of wasted words and actions. ZeldaFs small domestic crisis-letting a kettle boil dry while polishing an old book-leads to playful banter with her husband, Jack. With witty commentary on the energy of needless words and amusing reflections on married life, this delightful story is a charming exploration of love and distraction.

Me and Ernesto by Ken Rodgers captures the chaotic world of a young narrator witnessing his family unravel. As a firebomb shatters their home, hidden tensions surface-an affair, domestic fights, and conflicting loyalties. Through a childs perspective, the story explores innocence disrupted by harsh truths and the emotional complexities of family trauma.

In I Don’t Mind Muggins Man, Michael Lee Johnson humorously captures the mischievous antics of a spirited Persian cat. From sniffing red-hot peppers to wild leaps across a polished floor, the poem paints a lively portrait of feline chaos. With vivid imagery and playful tone, the poet transforms a moment of everyday life into an ode to the unpredictable charm of a beloved pet.

In TimeFs Garden, Oonah Joslin paints a hauntingly beautiful metaphor for mortality and eternity. The decaying garden, with its skeletal paths and silent sundial, evokes the inevitability of death, while the marble angel offers solace and perspective. Through the angelFs guidance, the narrator glimpses the infinite expanse of time, transforming fear into awe and revealing the unity of all existence.

In Like Zen, Michael Lee Johnson reflects on the paradoxes of spiritual pursuit and human imperfection. Through vivid imagery of cherry blossoms, monastic simplicity, and fleeting moments, the poem explores the tension between earthly desires and transcendent aspirations. It captures the struggle of balancing Zen-like stillness and worldly chaos with raw honesty and introspection.

Bittner

Augustine

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Magazine

In Crows, Michael Lee Johnson juxtaposes the harshness of winter with the vitality of late summer, weaving a vivid narrative of hunger and survival. Through the eyes of scavenging crows, the poem captures a primal yearning that transcends seasons-an ode to persistence, as the black wings move from barren snowfields to the warm glow of corn-laden August skies.

In Fog Man, Michael Lee Johnson paints a haunting portrait of a solitary figure consumed by fog and memories. Amid obscenities and lunar scrutiny, the fog man’s cries echo through distant dreams of a lost lady. The poem captures the rawness of isolation, pride, and fleeting connections, weaving a visceral tale of human frailty in the misty void between past and present.

Marion, Taryn and Caolan Clarke, A Christmas Canzonette

Judith Lawrence

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.

Stephen ZelnickFs essay "Spanish New World Poetry" explores the profound impact of Latin American democratic movements through the lens of poetic voices, focusing on Argentine poet Alfonsina Storni. Zelnick delves into Storni's work, examining her defiant stance against the societal expectations placed on women and her poetic evolution from romantic musings to sharp, modern realism. Through her haunting imagery and poignant themes, Storni captures the struggles of Latin American women against machismo and societal oppression, offering both personal and universal reflections on love, pain, and independence.

In Thomas Hardy, Poet, Stephen Zelnick examines Hardy's s transition from a celebrated novelist to a dedicated poet, highlighting his unique voice shaped by gothic influences, regional accents, and deep skepticism. Zelnick explores Hardy'ss vast poetic range, from light-hearted carousing to profound meditations on war, love, and existential doubt. Hardy’s poems, rich in emotion and experimentation, reveal a man deeply connected to the rhythms of rural life and troubled by the uncertainties of modern existence.

In The City Shrugs, Akeith Walters captures a poignant winter morning, where frosty dew and long shadows paint a stark, crystal-shard landscape. The city, framed through a frosty attic window, becomes an indifferent observer--its busy skyline contrasts with the bitter wind and voiceless souls seeking warmth, embodying the weight of unmet expectations and the chill of human isolation.

In Silvering the Planet, Akeith Walters paints a poignant portrait of EarthFs quiet mourning. Sunset hues blend into silver starlight as the planet reflects on its past vitality, now overshadowed by humanityFs impact. With vivid imagery, the poem juxtaposes natureFs enduring beauty with the intrusion of manmade decay, evoking both reverence and lament for a world burdened by neglect.

In They Can Always Eat Stubborn Collard Greens, Akeith Walters weaves a somber reflection on climate changes relentless toll. Through vivid imagery of withering East Texas pines, dusty landscapes, and fragile remnants of life, the poem captures a world in decline. Yet, amidst the loss, the stubborn collard greens endure, embodying resilience and defiance against a hotter, harsher future.

Bill West

William Blake

evie robillard

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.

In Not Right, Erik Svehaug crafts a chilling exploration of power, control, and the human spirit under oppression. Danford Fortegeist, a plantation owner driven by experimental ambition, treats his slaves as tools for his schemes. Through Fancy, a boy caught between identities and cultures, the narrative delves into resilience and the cost of freedom. A harrowing tale of systemic cruelty and defiance.

In A Windy Day in Connemara, Mari Fitzpatrick crafts a vivid portrait of natureFs raw power and serene beauty. The poem captures the rhythmic pulse of the ocean, the grace of seabirds, and the majesty of a lone deer in the coastal expanse. Through rich imagery and lyrical storytelling, it intertwines the chaos of the elements with the delicate balance of life, celebrating the untamed spirit of Connemara.

Drum School by Erik Svehaug, young Costas is cast out by his family into a life of hardship, eventually becoming a galley rower and discovering the transformative power of rhythm. Through grueling training, camaraderie, and mentorship, he finds redemption and purpose, his scars symbolizing resilience. A tale of loss, endurance, and identity, Costas journey honors his past while embracing a powerful future.

Chekhov's Dark Comedy, Stephen Zelnick explores the enigmatic nature of The Seagull, a play Chekhov envisioned as comedy but layered with despair, cruelty, and unfulfilled lives. Zelnick examines Chekhov’s nuanced storytelling, which mocks genre conventions, embraces subtle irony, and resists tidy conclusions. The essay celebrates Chekhov's artful portrayal of flawed humanity amidst societal decline.

In Picture on Picture, Mari Fitzpatrick captures the lively interplay of nature and imagination through a vivid cat-and-mouse chase by a rain barrel. Blending humor and reflection, she contrasts the raw vitality of the pursuit with the serenity of a garden setting. The piece evolves into a poetic exploration of movement, tension, and the delicate balance of life in its fleeting moments.

In The Mandylion, Joe Giordano intertwines art, danger, and family dynamics through the lives of Anthony and Valentina Provati. This gripping excerpt sets the stage for a high-stakes narrative as Anthony, a Manhattan art dealer, is drawn back into a dangerous world by Sophia, an alluring figure from his past. With Valentina’s sharp wit and FBI expertise, the siblings navigate temptation, loyalty, and the shadowy underbelly of the art world.

"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.

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.

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.

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

Clancy's "The UFO Over Portland," engages with themes of perception, reality, and the thin line between the ordinary and the extraordinary.

Explore Oliver Goldsmith's classic song from 'She Stoops to Conquer,' a humorous take on 18th-century society's views on education, religion, and merriment.

Each of these pieces showcases Goldsmith's ability to blend social commentary with poetic elegance, often weaving in a moral or philosophical lesson.

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.

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, ...

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.

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.

Book Two: Indigo

The Crafts

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.

Summer

Autumn

Winter

Oonah V. Joslin's tankas offer our readers a poetic glimpses into love, nature, and life's fleeting moments. Each verse weaves emotions and memories, revealing the beauty in the mundane and the eternal dance of change. Dive into a world where words paint lasting impressions on the heart and mind.

"Very Warm for March" beautifully intertwines the awakening of the natural world with the awakening of human desires and connections. Blossom's use of imagery and intimate details creates a piece that resonates with the joy of early spring and the timeless nature of love.

The poem invites readers to reflect on the nature of sibling relationships, the process of mourning, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality. Through its exploration of these themes, "Red Rewind" speaks to the universal experience of grappling with the complexities of love, loss, and the human condition.

Dark Snow by Linda Shok is a narrative that seems to revel in contrasts: the tangible with the abstract, the domestic with the natural, and the intimate with the expansive. The prose is rich with metaphor and imagery, suggesting a deep undercurrent of emotion and longing beneath the surface of everyday actions.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

n The Pieces the Soul Knows by Apple Beth, the unseen depths of the human experience are illuminated through evocative imagery. The poem explores the quiet tremors of heartbreak, unspoken truths, and the wounds hidden beneath masks. A meditative journey through the soul's silent tides, it reflects on choices, dreams, and the healing that softens the edges of life's deepest scars

In Beyond Words, Apple Beth crafts a whimsical tale where letters come alive, rallying to debate their evolving roles in language. With humor and charm, the piece explores the tension between tradition and change in grammar and word usage. As letters gather to decide their fate, the story celebrates the creativity and magic of language, offering a playful yet insightful commentary on how we communicate.

In Ancestor, a fierce matriarch, hardened by loss and survival, gazes from the past, her legacy etched in resilience and a fierce protection of family.

In Pooka, the poet contemplates existence, mortality, and the lurking presence of spirits on All HallowFs Eve, as the shape-shifting Pooka blurs timeFs boundaries and whispers of hidden realms.

In Dance of the Dead, spirits rise on Hallows Eve, luring the unsuspecting into a macabre dance with the dead, as bones clack and shadows pull them ever closer to the grave.

In Not Right, Erik Svehaug crafts a chilling exploration of power, control, and the human spirit under oppression. Danford Fortegeist, a plantation owner driven by experimental ambition, treats his slaves as tools for his schemes. Through Fancy, a boy caught between identities and cultures, the narrative delves into resilience and the cost of freedom. A harrowing tale of systemic cruelty and defiance.

In A Windy Day in Connemara, Mari Fitzpatrick crafts a vivid portrait of natureFs raw power and serene beauty. The poem captures the rhythmic pulse of the ocean, the grace of seabirds, and the majesty of a lone deer in the coastal expanse. Through rich imagery and lyrical storytelling, it intertwines the chaos of the elements with the delicate balance of life, celebrating the untamed spirit of Connemara.

Drum School by Erik Svehaug, young Costas is cast out by his family into a life of hardship, eventually becoming a galley rower and discovering the transformative power of rhythm. Through grueling training, camaraderie, and mentorship, he finds redemption and purpose, his scars symbolizing resilience. A tale of loss, endurance, and identity, Costas journey honors his past while embracing a powerful future.

Voices against Silence
In a world where the shadows of gender abuse cast long and oppressive lines, the voices of the silenced often go unheard. "Voices Against Silence" seeks to bring these stories into the light, inviting writers to contribute their narratives, poems, essays, and artworks that delve into the multifaceted issue of gender abuse, with a particular focus on abuses against women.

Climate Change Through the Eye of the Beholder
In 2024, The Linnet's Wings delves into one of the most multifaceted issues of our time: climate change. But this is not just about the scientific discourse or the policy debates; it's about personal narratives, creative reflections, and diverse interpretations. ItFs about seeing this global challenge "through the eye of the beholder."