Flux Lines by John C Mannone

Three Pounds of Cells by Oonah V Joslin

Nine Romantic Stories by Carla Serett

Colm Scully

Larry Thomas

In "Passive Youth" by Frances Gapper, parents navigate the daily frustrations of living with their unambitious adult children. Amidst a backdrop of untidiness and indifference, the parent's attempts at connection are met with silence and grunts, as they worry silently about their children's future.

In "Archie and Grandma Bond" by Bill Frank Robinson, young Archie, shivering in the winter chill, walks with the kind yet weathered Lonnie Johnson, who is reputedly no-good yet kind. Archie finds solace and warmth in the company of Grandma Johnson, a wise and loving woman who sees in him a kindred spirit. Despite the bullying from his peers and harsh judgments from others about Lonnie, Archie forms a deep bond with Grandma, who shares tales of her difficult past, orphaned and mistreated, yet resilient. Together, they navigate lifeFs challenges, finding strength and comfort in each otherFs company.

In "Once They're Gone, They Keep Going" by Mir-Yashar Seyedbagheri, the narrator reflects on life with his mother, Sylvia Drew, an English teacher with fiery red hair and a turbulent past. Living in a small apartment near the steel mills, Sylvia and her son Mattie navigate a world of broken dreams and fleeting ambitions. Sylvia, a once-aspiring actress from a family of lawyers, wrestles with the constraints of her life and the absence of Mattie's father, a labor leader with a mysterious departure. The story explores themes of loss, identity, and the longing for something beyond the confines of a constrained existence.

"Broke--20" by Joan Colby is a poignant reflection on the lives of iconic artists and writers. Colby weaves together a tapestry of creative souls like Rembrandt, Poe, Keats, and Van Gogh, juxtaposing their artistic brilliance with the struggles that marked their lives. Each line evokes the haunting images of masterpieces and literary works, underscoring the tragic irony that these creators, who gave the world so much, were often left destitute and misunderstood.

Akeith Walters crafts a haunting narrative of longing and loss. The poem is set in a dimly lit kitchen, where the speaker, with a bourbon in hand, is confronted by the spectral presence of a lover lost to time. As the figure's shadow stretches across the yard and the windowpane, the past and present blur, revealing the quiet, unnerving intimacy shared with this ghostly visitor.

One Too Many Mornings by Kyle Hemmings is a haunting, lyrical narrative set against the backdrop of war and quiet tragedy. With boys-turned-soldiers leaning on their muskets and a grieving mother calling for her daughter, the poem captures the stillness of a world caught between life and death. Hemmings' use of sensory detail-crisp grass, dew, and a trickling brook-creates a poignant, almost surreal atmosphere, where the weight of loss feels both personal and historical.

Wild Strawberries by Lisa Cihlar is a deeply introspective poem that explores the complexities of memory, motherhood, and personal identity. Through vivid imagery and tender recollections, the speaker reflects on their relationship with their mother, weaving together moments of childhood with the adult decision not to have children. The poem juxtaposes the innocence of picking wild strawberries and the sharp reality of familial burdens-embodied in the mothers brusque care and unspoken frustrations.

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.

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Contributors

The Linnet's Wings Magazine

Charlie Britten

Peter Taylor

Perspective by Jim Hatfield
Enrico Zoff, gardener to Pablo Picasso, brushed earth from his apron and, as bidden, entered his employer’s studio.
The great man swung an arm over work worth millions. Tell me, Enrico, please, what do you think of these?
The Italian put on his spectacles and peered at a canvas on the wall. Eyes able to shape and size a garden at a glance could
see no form at all. Pardon my ignorance, Signor, but what is it I am looking for?
It is a woman Zoff!
The old man looked again, eyes straining, glasses off.
A woman you say?
A woman! I see women that way. The gardener fiddled with his hat.
And that?
A horse, Picasso sighed.
That is how you see a horse? Of course! his boss replied. Signor Picasso, forgive me.
The old man gently shook his head.
with eyesight as bad as yours, why do you paint at all? He said.

Ed's Wife and Other Stories

Is a whimsically poignant collection of vignettes that blend elements of the mundane with the magical, giving us insight into Ed's life with his shape-shifting wife, Suze.

Inniscrone

Is a rich tapestry of images and thoughts that beautifully captures the interplay between the external environment and the internal musings of the speaker

Eden

Explores themes of resilience, transience, and the bittersweet beauty found in places shaped by both natural forces and human hands.

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.

"On His Toes" is a beautifully written reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the dangers of romanticizing or idealizing a partner based on limited interactions or shared activities. It invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of love and attraction, the importance of communication and shared values in building a lasting relationship, and the role of personal growth and self-awareness in navigating the challenges of intimacy.

"A Shadow of Doubt" by Mary Jo Breen unfolds in a tender yet poignant exploration of aging, memory, and the thin line between the past and present. The story introduces us to Mrs. Taylor, an elderly woman grappling with the pains of aging and the haunting presence of a ghost she believes visits her at dawn. The ghost, with its "smug smile," seems to torment her with its silent presence, raising questions about the unresolved issues or memories Mrs. Taylor might be struggling with.

"Water" by Ian Butterworth Water is not just a story about dying; it's a profound reflection on the complexities of human emotion, the tangled relationships that define us, and the quest for peace and love in the face of the inevitable. It invites readers to contemplate the depths of their own psyche and the nature of their relationships, making it a compelling piece for anyone interested in the intersection of psychology, spirituality, and the human condition,

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

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.

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."

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.

"Reverance" by Nonnie Augustine is a vivid and evocative piece of writing, rich in imagery and sensory detail. Augustine's language is both lyrical and gritty, painting a vivid picture of the scene and characters.

Here in Augustines' "Hogheads and Tricks" a person grapples with the passage of time, lost creativity, and a desire to escape or confront the mundane realities of life, possibly looking for new experiences or inspirations to reignite their lost spark.

Heavisides' work, as exemplified in this piece, showcases a talent for blending the profound with the practical, infusing traditional narratives with modern sensibilities and concerns.

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

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.

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."