Let's start with something from Amy Lowell. I'm reading Painted Shadow right now, Carole Seymour-Jones' biography of T.S. Eliot's wife, Vivien, and Amy Lowell and all those folks from that time are on my mind. Medusa happens to be partial to Amy, anyway—maybe this will appease all that Monday morning snake-angst:
WIND AND SILVER
—Amy Lowell
Greatly shining,
The Autumn moon floats in the thin sky;
And the fish-ponds shake their backs and flash their dragon scales
As she passes over them.
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Thanks, Amy!
It's not too late to sign up for the "A Summer Showcase" to be held this Saturday, August 6 at Sun City in Roseville, sponsored by the "Society of Cleo Poets", Cleo Griffith (of Salida) and Cleo Kocol (of Sacramento). The program will feature Gail Rudd Entrekin (Professor/poet Sierra College, Editor of Hip Pocket Press), Sam Pierstorff (Poet Laureate of Modesto and Editor of Quercus Review) and Cynthia L. Bryant (Poet Laureate of Pleasanton and Editor of Poet's Lane—remember the e-mail service she provides, announcing Nor-Cal readings?). Also reading will be a variety of other poets, both local and otherwise, including Taylor Graham, Pearl Stein Selinsky, Karen Baker (all rattlechappers), JoAn Osborne (co-editor of Tiger’s Eye), Elizabeth Bernstein, the two Cleos, Kathy Kieth, Lynn Hansen, Marnelle White, nancee maya, Gordon Durham. Word on the street is that lots of other poets will be there, too, including a whole gaggle from Placerville. Registration for those not on the program is $5. Soft drinks and snacks will be provided. Info: cleor36@yahoo.com; check to see if there are any open mic spots left, and to ask for directions to 7600 Whistlestop Way in Roseville. Here is a wee sample from Lynn Hansen of Modesto:
DANDELIONS
—Lynn Hansen, Modesto
Rosettes,
concealed by grasses,
lie unnoticed at dawn.
Filaments,
coiled in cones,
burst into rays.
Spheres,
parachutes of promise,
scatter with breezes.
(Appeared in Song of the San Joaquin)
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Thanks, Lynn! This is going to be a biggie!
And while you're in the Kitchen, check yesterday's posting for information about the Emu-fest and about tonight's Sac. Poetry Center reading at HQ to celebrate the release of Charlie MacDonald's book from Swan Scythe Press.
It's Monday. Go and be well...
—Medusa