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Poetry by Tyler Bigney
The poem beautifully conveys the idea of finding contentment in being disconnected from the world and oneself, even if just for a moment. |
 "Iran" by Tyler Bigney captures a moment of introspection and apprehension, inviting the reader to contemplate themes of fear, longing, and the desire for escape amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and danger. |
 "Without Us" captures a snapshot of human connection amidst the passage of time and the distractions of daily life. It highlights the beauty and significance of shared moments, however fleeting they may be. |
Story: West, Fitzpatrick, Fox, Joy
"Life's a Beach" offers a charming blend of observation, contemplation, and unexpected twists, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of existence against the timeless backdrop of the sea. |
 Fitzpatrick's prose invites readers into a world where past and present converge, where ancient gods still hold sway over the land, and where the timeless beauty of Egypt's landscapes is illuminated by both natural and artificial light. |
 "The Night of the Fox" leaves readers with a haunting reflection on the fragility of human relationships and the resilience required to navigate the unpredictable terrain of life. |
 The story beautifully captures the complexity of human nature, as Vitoria reflects on her past mistakes and the desire for validation and respect. Despite her past transgressions, she ultimately seeks to redeem herself and prove her worth as a good person. |
Story: Linden and Olson
On walkabout from the cafe, tired of city lights, Ma, the shaman, catches a bus from the downtown station to the end of the line. Here, Ma runs with emus through the red desert dust and eats bush cucumbers in full fruit. |
 The sun was just rising in West Central Minnesota, brazing the horizon a magenta color as upkicked dust lilted behind a Chevrolet truck that rumbled down the long gravel driveway. The truck pulled onto a paved county road that reached out for miles on an even plain. The only signs of civilization outside of Jay’s passenger side window were the railroad tracks running parallel to the road and the high-voltage power lines off in the distance--giants standing above the wheat and corn and beets. Tyler, Jay’s cousin and a year his junior, flipped on the radio. |
Life's a Beach by Bill West
I arrived in Hull looking for Larkin's “barge-crowded water." I found dredgers languishing in mud, the Slavery Museum and a pub called The Black Boy. I entered the pub for a pint. A girl at the bar turned to me, swizzled her eyes and said, “got any wheels?"
Later we drove out to Spurn Point. She talked about Hannah Arendt, the life of the mind and the banality of evil. I parked. She gazed into my eyes and told me about the beneficial effects of naked yoga. She winked grabbed my hand and dragged me behind a sand dune to an orange tent. She flipped the flap revealing Ben, naked and in a lotus position.
“Thanks for the lift!" she called as she waved me off.
On Spurn Head wind tugged my beard. Morose gulls hovered, waves sucked the shingle and I watched as ferries left for Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
Poetry and Prose, Garner, Walker, Long
"Sipsey" is a compelling exploration of nature, human relationships, and the passage of time. Garner's use of language and imagery creates a powerful sense of atmosphere, drawing the reader into the world of the poem and leaving a lasting impression. |
 "Aphrodisiac" is a well-crafted poem that effectively explores themes of desire, sensuality, and intimacy through vivid imagery and metaphorical language. |
 Through its well-developed characters and evocative prose, "The Village of St. Fiacra" offers a compelling glimpse into the intricacies of human relationships and the dynamics of a close-knit community. |
 There's a sense of anticipation and reverence for the natural world, underscored by the awareness of one's place within it. Overall, "The Wells of Dee" invites readers to contemplate the timeless beauty and mysteries of the Scottish Highlands. |
 "Paid to Dance" captures the complex emotions and experiences of a young artist navigating the precarious balance between passion and practicality, dreams and reality, in the bustling metropolis of New York City. |
 "The Cleaner" captures the complexity of human emotions and the universal desire for validation and fulfillment, even in the most mundane of tasks. |
 It's a touching portrayal of the complexities of relationships and the beauty found in moments of vulnerability. |
Fiction: Castle, Laurie, Wilkinson and Harden
 "Window Shopping" is a deeply moving story that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level. Castle's evocative prose and compelling characters make for a captivating read that lingers in the mind long after the final page. |
 This piece captures a sense of monotony and routine within an institutionalized environment, while also hinting at the nuanced emotions and experiences of the narrator amidst the repetitive nature of their daily life. |
 "Him and Her" masterfully explores the complexities of human relationships and the enduring impact of love and loss. Through its vivid imagery and heartfelt prose, the story resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level, reminding us of the universal experiences of longing, regret, and the passage of time. |
 "The Last Marble" by J. Scott Harden is a poignant and thought-provoking story that delves into themes of memory, friendship, loss, and the choices we make in life. The narrator reflects on a pivotal moment from their childhood involving their friend Will and a marble that holds deep significance. |
Story: Britten, Joslin, Burton, Robinson
 "A Bride for Birdie" is a thought-provoking tale that explores themes of trust, deception, and the search for connection in a modern world. |
 "Drawing the Line" is a powerful narrative that explores themes of courage, resilience, and the human capacity for compassion amidst adversity. It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by communities divided by conflict and the strength found in solidarity and support. |
 "Betty's Visit" by Tom Burton certainly seems like an intriguing piece with its surreal elements. Dreams often blur the lines between reality and imagination, and it sounds like this dream was no exception. |
 The tale captures the essence of resilience, love, and the unexpected turns life can take. Through Franks reminiscences, the reader is transported to a time and place where human connections transcend hardships, and love blossoms in unexpected circumstances |
The Trail By Abigale Louise LeCavalier
There was a sticky train
of sweet apple sauce,
starting in the kitchen
and making craters down the hallway;
not so clean,
this getaway.
Smeared under the door
as it was opened
and again closed.
Trailed across the newly polished
hardwood floor.
The fruit ended at his bed,
a dirty spoon in his hand still.
And I wiped off his face,
and I kissed his forehead.
“goodnight."
Watching him smile
even as he slept.
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Publisher: M. Lynam Fitzpatick
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First Impression, 25th March 2011