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.

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, ...

In "Harmony," a woman grapples with grief and the surreal nature of loss at her father's funeral. The story interweaves the lives of four sisters, their enduring connection, and the vivid tapestry of emotions spanning seventy year

Explore Ian Butterworths poignant tales of love, betrayal, and the quest for meaning amidst life's deepest challenges. Four interwoven stories reveal the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the spirit

Martin Heavisides' essay on William Blake, delves into the inseparable nature of Blake's visual and literary art. Discover a nuanced critique challenging traditional views and celebrating Blake's comprehensive genius in both poetry and visual artistry

"In America Four Times a Day by Bobby Steve Baker is a poignant poem detailing the tragic reality of child abuse from a medical perspective, highlighting the emotional and ethical challenges faced by professionals in confronting this harsh reality."

Blake's poetry, as Zelnick points out, defies the typical expectations of poetry to celebrate beauty and virtue, instead using his verse as a tool for social critique, revealing the dark underbelly of London's progress and prosperity.

"The Legacy of Spanish Theater" by Diana Ferraro delves deep into the rich history and legacy of Spanish theater, highlighting its significant cultural contributions from the Middle Ages through the Siglo de Oro, and beyond into contemporary times.

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Magazine

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In Sailing the Prairie, Bill West captures the lonely resilience of young Johnny, who clings to hope and memories as he waits for his missing mother. From his perch in a tree, he imagines himself on a pirate ship, escaping a harsh reality filled with loss and a father lost to drink. The prairie becomes a place of both longing and comfort, as Johnny faces an uncertain future, holding onto SissyFs whispered reassurances and the faint hope that his mother will return. WestFs story is a tender portrayal of childhood innocence amid sorrow.

Where Have All the Flowers Gone by Amy N. Smith is a reflective, heartfelt journey that intertwines the narrator’s memories with present moments on a crowded bus ride. As the narrator watches people around her and recalls time spent with her beloved grandmother, she reflects on the nature of loss, love, and resilience. The story moves through layers of emotion, from childhood innocence to the acceptance of grief, culminating in a deeply personal farewell at her grandmother’s graveside. Smith’s lyrical prose beautifully captures the passage of time, the power of memory, and the enduring bond between generations.

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.

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.

"Smell of Rain" by Ramon Collins explores the reflective moments of Henry Jenkins, a former baseball champion, as he confronts aging, legacy, and mortality on his porch, amidst the backdrop of an impending storm and personal battles, encapsulating lifeFs transient beauty and inevitable changes

A humorous tale of a grandmother's struggle with tiny print on a medication bottle, reflecting on generational gaps, accessibility, and globalization. A witty exploration of aging in a modern world.

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.

"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.

"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

"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

"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

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

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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.

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

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.