From the Archives—Artistic Views—Featuring Ali Znaidi—Tunisia, Robert P. Hansen—United States, Ralph Stott—England and Jim Teeters—United States

I enjoy delving into our Whispers’ archives to read gems from past issues.  Poetry is a form of art and as such the visual presentation matters.  Interesting spacing, creative titles, stanza breaks as well as other elements go into the decision of which poems the reader will be drawn to.  Yet, visual experiences aren’t about a haphazard placement of words on a page—all elements should be part of conveying the message.  The poems by Ali, Robert, Ralph and Jim are artistic experiences from talented writers. I thank them for choosing our online journal to share their gifts.

Sincerely,

Karen O’Leary—Whispers’ Editor

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The Shape of Inexistence

By Ali Znaidi--Tunisia

When the night comes

existence takes the shape

of inexistence for those

who have no home

but the streets’ laps,

for those who queue,

           as usual,

waiting for new sorrows,

       & above all,

for those whose morning

is not yet to come.

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Leftovers

By Robert P. Hansen—United States

rag doll

    —mauled—

         squeaky chew toy

      puppy love

yips

      yaps

            growls

                      barks

       wagging tail

sloppy tongue

  

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Broken monoku--form

By Ralph Stott—England

..........a tulip's petals close
..................a man writes by candlelight

________________

a man sleeps alone.......
.......heads full of crowds

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Fallen Leaf

By Jim Teeters—United States

When I step off

the spinning wheel

my future flashes before me

holds me captive

must find my center

shake myself free

need to be a

            fallen leaf

still

            ready

for God’s breath

to whisk me

where I need to go

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