Why am I posting this here? Because it is poetry to my ears. Howard Hurtz of the Washington Post writes about the editorial landscape out there this election among newspapers.
Of the many notables - The Orlando Sentinel which has backed every Republican Presidential Candidate since Richard M. Nixon in 1968. At least until now. "This president has utterly failed to fulfill our expectations," according to the Florida paper.
But the Sentinel is just one of 36 newspapers that endorsed President Bush in the 2000 campaign that have since ditched the President in favor of John Kerry. Newspapers like the LA Daily news, Chicago-Sun-Times and Memphis Commercial Appeal. To tally up the endorsements Kerry leads Bush 142 to 123 in endorsements.
Bush has won over only six papers that backed Al Gore last election. One, the Denver Post, which received 700 letters -- all of them protesting the move according to Howard Hurtz. Nine newspapers, that backed Bush last election simply decided to back no candidate.
How much any of these impact the election process is certainly debatable. They are kind of like yard signs. Newspapers don't vote, but you'd rather have more endorsements than not.
36 Papers Abandon Bush for Kerry (washingtonpost.com)
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Excerpt from "Coming Out"
In their proper place,
miniature nick-knacks
adorning shelves.
Space assigned to them
so providential,
standing among their own.
Delighting onlookers
on command
Twirling in whirly-skirts
Till taken down,
played with
and returned.
from Coming Out by Michael A. Wells
Post Card Tuesday #4
It's Post Card Poetry Tuesday again for me. Today I'll script another poem on post card and drop it in the mail (yes snail mail) to Ivy who is across the Atlantic in Wales.
This experience (writing a post card poem and exchanging it with another poet on a weekly basis) has been a good one for several reasons. It provides a incentive to set down on a specific day and create a new work under a bit of pressure. By mailing it that day, you don't have the ability to tinker with it a lot. I certainly believe in rewrites. And rewrites and rewrites... (you get the point) but there is something to be said as well for letting your creativity work in this sententious period of time and become what it will and nothing more. Sometimes you can overthink something and that can actually kill the creative process.
There is not illusion here. I don't believe I am writing a defining opus on these postcards, but I was quite pleased for example with the second Tuesday's work. In fact it was the center of a lot of attention when I shared it at one of my writing groups after the fact.
It is also exciting to see the work in the poets own script. Admittedly Ivy can write quite small and it at times has taken on an experience not unlike translation. [chuckle] I have had on one occasion to actually rewrite one of Ivy's in my own longhand and work a bit to finally determine two words. I suspect my own writing is perhaps just as challenging to read. At any rate, we are each getting a poem in the poet's own handwriting. Which is kind of cool.
This is the fourth and final Tuesday of the month... which is kind of sad I guess. I am hoping as I put my mind to work on this later today that I will indeed come up with something I am satisfied with as it falls into the mail box out of my reach. For when that happens, there are no take-backs.
There is this international factor as well. Of course two people in the same city could be exchanging poems but in this instance, the exchange is truly international.
This experience (writing a post card poem and exchanging it with another poet on a weekly basis) has been a good one for several reasons. It provides a incentive to set down on a specific day and create a new work under a bit of pressure. By mailing it that day, you don't have the ability to tinker with it a lot. I certainly believe in rewrites. And rewrites and rewrites... (you get the point) but there is something to be said as well for letting your creativity work in this sententious period of time and become what it will and nothing more. Sometimes you can overthink something and that can actually kill the creative process.
There is not illusion here. I don't believe I am writing a defining opus on these postcards, but I was quite pleased for example with the second Tuesday's work. In fact it was the center of a lot of attention when I shared it at one of my writing groups after the fact.
It is also exciting to see the work in the poets own script. Admittedly Ivy can write quite small and it at times has taken on an experience not unlike translation. [chuckle] I have had on one occasion to actually rewrite one of Ivy's in my own longhand and work a bit to finally determine two words. I suspect my own writing is perhaps just as challenging to read. At any rate, we are each getting a poem in the poet's own handwriting. Which is kind of cool.
This is the fourth and final Tuesday of the month... which is kind of sad I guess. I am hoping as I put my mind to work on this later today that I will indeed come up with something I am satisfied with as it falls into the mail box out of my reach. For when that happens, there are no take-backs.
There is this international factor as well. Of course two people in the same city could be exchanging poems but in this instance, the exchange is truly international.
Sunday, October 24, 2004
Weekend Mailbag...
Saturday I received the newest Poets & Writers magazine. A variety of irritating campaign mail. Irritating because much of it was "stock crap" put out by the Missouri State Republican party that they are mailing against most Democratic candidates and it has a vary unsavory message that evidently they believe the majority of the public is dumb enough to by into.
Friday, another poetry postcard from Ivy. I'm so confused. We are doing Tuesday's and this was the third such poem this month from her. She's ahead of me! She evidently is writing in the future and sending them back in time. I do well enough to do them on time. Yikes! More on the postcard poetry later this week.
No rejections.... no acceptance letters.
Tomorrow night is Open Mic @ Writers Place.
Friday, another poetry postcard from Ivy. I'm so confused. We are doing Tuesday's and this was the third such poem this month from her. She's ahead of me! She evidently is writing in the future and sending them back in time. I do well enough to do them on time. Yikes! More on the postcard poetry later this week.
No rejections.... no acceptance letters.
Tomorrow night is Open Mic @ Writers Place.
Friday, October 22, 2004
Profound Escapes Me
I was thinking about writing something very profound tonight... but I guess I haven't thought hard enough. Actually there are several topics I have wanted to get into lately and perhaps this weekend I will.
So glad it is Friday. First half of the day went so quick and the rest seemed to drag on and on. Planned to watch Jag tonight with wife. It wasn't on. Instead, I watched First Night with my daughter. I've seen it before and Meg has too - but for her, it was only recently at school. I'm quite found of Arthurian literature and this movie is pretty decent for a updated version of Camelot. By the way... for those that might be interested there is an excellent Arthurian resource site on the net. [click here]
That's the extent of my functional dialogue for now... Hope everyone has a great weekend. I promise to do better tomorrow.
So glad it is Friday. First half of the day went so quick and the rest seemed to drag on and on. Planned to watch Jag tonight with wife. It wasn't on. Instead, I watched First Night with my daughter. I've seen it before and Meg has too - but for her, it was only recently at school. I'm quite found of Arthurian literature and this movie is pretty decent for a updated version of Camelot. By the way... for those that might be interested there is an excellent Arthurian resource site on the net. [click here]
That's the extent of my functional dialogue for now... Hope everyone has a great weekend. I promise to do better tomorrow.
Zeitgeist Poetry
No halloween pumpkins
were harmed in this creation.
So, who are the victim here?
Katelyn Faber,
Andrea Mackris,
or the Yankees?
You think the Red Sox
are Team America?
The Cardinals may
have something
to say about that.
This Ramadan
who is hotter,
Angelia Jolie
or Tupac?
Hey, I did it for the hits! :)
were harmed in this creation.
So, who are the victim here?
Katelyn Faber,
Andrea Mackris,
or the Yankees?
You think the Red Sox
are Team America?
The Cardinals may
have something
to say about that.
This Ramadan
who is hotter,
Angelia Jolie
or Tupac?
Hey, I did it for the hits! :)
Stick Poet Superhero
Able to leap tall verbs with a single noun... It's Stick Poet Superhero. Defending your poetic rights!
Check out Stick Poet Superhero Gear
Check out Stick Poet Superhero Gear
Thursday, October 21, 2004
A Little Bragging About the Little Woman
My wife (Cathy) has just finished a bead project that is so kick ass! This is not by any stroke of the imagination her only masterful piece - but it is so striking that I am hoping to get a good photo of it to post on here soon. There is another one that.... well, you'll just have to wait and see. Hopefully my daughter can help me get a couple of pictures this weekend that might be able to do them justice...
Anyway... just a little bragging on my bead artist wife. :) If I could be as masterful with words as she is with beads... *sigh
Anyway... just a little bragging on my bead artist wife. :) If I could be as masterful with words as she is with beads... *sigh
Happy Birthday To Jilly
Fellow (there should be a feminine form of that word) poet/blogger Jilly is #& today. Happy Birthday!!! I wish I was #& again... [smile]
My gift to you is NOT singing Happy Birthday. Trust me... that is an awesome gift. LOL
My gift to you is NOT singing Happy Birthday. Trust me... that is an awesome gift. LOL
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Reading Wednesday Night
B&N @ Zona Rosa
Open Mic
off I-29 and N.W. Berry Road
At Zona Rosa Shopping Mall
North Kansas City, Missouri
Sign in starts at 6:30
I plan to be on hand - I expect some of the Northland Writing Group and Park University writers will be there.. and well as others.
Monday, October 18, 2004
Bricks
A pile of rubble,
A puzzle, broken
Down into blocks
Of hardened earth
Freed
From the architect-
That once imagined.
From the Poet-
That once dreamed.
A puzzle, broken
Down into blocks
Of hardened earth
Freed
From the architect-
That once imagined.
From the Poet-
That once dreamed.
Therapist finds poetry can unlock doors - Daily Herald
While this is a topic that I've touched on here before, I thought this Daily Herald item was worth reading.
Daily Herald
Daily Herald
Sunday, October 17, 2004
It's a Wrap...
Geeze Louise, when have you seen such good poetry blogging as Victoria & Eileen have sparked this past week? I'll lift a glass of Beaulieu Vineyards "BV" Chardonnay 2000 to toast this weeks exchange. But hell, It don't take much for me to want to pop a cork of BV Chardonnay.
Well, Tonight I put together a packet of five poems to submit to New Letters which takes me up to 7 submissions for the month.
Northland group met this afternoon. I read the Post Card Poem that I sent off to Ivy last Tuesday. It was well received.
That's about it for the weekend... Been keeping an eye on the playoff games tonight. Hated to see the Cards lose. I think although that series is tied at two games apiece... I think they will endure to play the World Series this post-season.
New York vs. Boston.... what can I say. The curse is the curse. Deal with it. Looking for a Cardinals Yankees series. Ah, baseball is so poetic!
Well, Tonight I put together a packet of five poems to submit to New Letters which takes me up to 7 submissions for the month.
Northland group met this afternoon. I read the Post Card Poem that I sent off to Ivy last Tuesday. It was well received.
That's about it for the weekend... Been keeping an eye on the playoff games tonight. Hated to see the Cards lose. I think although that series is tied at two games apiece... I think they will endure to play the World Series this post-season.
New York vs. Boston.... what can I say. The curse is the curse. Deal with it. Looking for a Cardinals Yankees series. Ah, baseball is so poetic!
Saturday, October 16, 2004
Poet laureate finds home in Washington
Ted Kooser on Thursday took up his new role as Poet Laureate of the United States.
Friday, October 15, 2004
Price
Two sixty-three and change
A shrill scream to go
With a few too many pints
Crimson blood
Soaked Camies
And uncontrollable sobs
That no amount of hankies
Will ever hold
Back the rivers
Of loss
Xeroxed a thousand plus
accolades around blogland
WTG Jilly - an acceptance for Ink Pot. Meanwhile Ivy is the featured poet over at Babylan Speaks for October. Speaking of Ivy.... I'm anxious for my next post card poem from her. This snail mail stuff really teaches patience. Or something...
Oh, I almost forgot! Aimee Nezhukumatathil has a poem translated to Italian. I'm so Impressed!!!
Oh, I almost forgot! Aimee Nezhukumatathil has a poem translated to Italian. I'm so Impressed!!!
Thursday, October 14, 2004
House Owned By The Babe Demolished - Baseball Gods Not Likely Amused
My wife told me about this story this morning. It cracked me up - we both looked at each other and immedately thought this only compounds the curse!
TheBostonChannel.com - Sports - House Owned By The Babe Demolished
TheBostonChannel.com - Sports - House Owned By The Babe Demolished
A Healthier Shade Of Flesh
For anyone who was concerned about my liver enzymes as Eileen evidently was, I feel compelled to say I am alive and doing fine. That is not to say that I am free of envy for those who will be able to partake of the panel discussion on poetry publishing at SF State that Ms. Tabios is participating in on November 9th. Still, in a very round about way, I believe she has cleared up a bit of the mystery on cultural capital from her original post. If I may say so, without hindering her desire to remain "flakey" in her own right, and on her own blog... I believe she is speaking of cultural capital in the context of something many other would relate to as a form of networking.
This is starting to click for me now. While not at all a new concept to me, I think she is giving it new meaning to me. Of course I would much prefer to be a mouse in the corner of the room when she gives this presentation or a poet in the audience would work quite nicely... but I at least believe I am now in the ballpark on what she is talking about.
It is with some degree of amusement that I recall another post of hers earlier in the week I believe when she spoke of how she kept screwing-up having a career in poetry. Hum, methinks she is not screwing-up too badly.
This is starting to click for me now. While not at all a new concept to me, I think she is giving it new meaning to me. Of course I would much prefer to be a mouse in the corner of the room when she gives this presentation or a poet in the audience would work quite nicely... but I at least believe I am now in the ballpark on what she is talking about.
It is with some degree of amusement that I recall another post of hers earlier in the week I believe when she spoke of how she kept screwing-up having a career in poetry. Hum, methinks she is not screwing-up too badly.
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
EILEEN ON POETRY: THE PROJECT FINANCE PERSPECTIVE
I have to take my hat off the Eileen for a most enjoyable and thought provoking post. She has brought a unique view of the "poetry world" today into focus in this blog post. If you missed it, go check it out.
The remarks on cultural capital sparked my interest. I would like for her to have been more specific. Perhaps if she ventures over and catches my post here, she will feel compelled to comment further. (Hey, one can hope!)
As I am typing this very post, my body is turning green. Green with envy of those who will be catching Eileen at the panel discussion she'll be giving on poetry publishing at SF State November 9th.
The Chatelaine's Poetics
On a totally unrelated note, I just realized that I missed the one year anniversary of Stick Poet Super Hero last month.Oh well, Happy 13 month birthday to me.
The remarks on cultural capital sparked my interest. I would like for her to have been more specific. Perhaps if she ventures over and catches my post here, she will feel compelled to comment further. (Hey, one can hope!)
As I am typing this very post, my body is turning green. Green with envy of those who will be catching Eileen at the panel discussion she'll be giving on poetry publishing at SF State November 9th.
The Chatelaine's Poetics
On a totally unrelated note, I just realized that I missed the one year anniversary of Stick Poet Super Hero last month.
Bovine beauty
It's always all about you!
Why you,why not me?
Look at me. What do you see?
A stake? A milk shake? A belly
full of grass?
Fuck you! I am COW
and I can stand on my own
four stout legs. I flick
the flies off my own back
never lifting a finger for I am COW!
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Roll Call - Who are novelists voting for?
Slate has provided a sampling of American novelists and their political persuasions this election. Some of the answers are.... well, novel. :)
Roll Call - Who are novelists voting for?
Roll Call - Who are novelists voting for?
MSNBC - The Life He Left Behind
A very powerful statement by Patti Davis in Newsweek. On a sad note; the passing of Christopher Reeves, Ms. Davis speaks about the cause he championed these past few years and what it means to others.
MSNBC - The Life He Left Behind
MSNBC - The Life He Left Behind
Monday, October 11, 2004
Post Card Poem Exchange
As I posted earlier, I am exchanging Post Card Poems with Ivy this month. Writing One each Tuesday in October. This is really a great idea. Ivy is doing this with several others. It forces you to create something quickly on a time-table and get it off to another (which can be a bit humbling) and then of course the excitement to seeing something the created under the same kinds of circumstances.
Wow... Ivy's Five Minute Call took me deep into the persona of a woman's soul.
Wow... Ivy's Five Minute Call took me deep into the persona of a woman's soul.
Breaking Silence
Ah, I have been a quiet one over the weekend. At least on blogland.
Hosted the Northland Writers group at our home one Sunday, so I was mostly busy getting ready for that ( an a thank you to my family for the help) and I am happy to say it went well.
The only disappointment was that I was up and down quite a bit and as a result didn't get to hear everyone or at least all that they wrote.
My cousin Jon and my wife's step-mother joined us. They have been doing some writing. Jon poetry and Janet is taking a creative writing class. I hope we didn't scare them... Too much!
Scot entertained them with a couple of his "God series" poems. Theology will never be the same.
Chris shared something he created from Pat's workshop... taking liberties with her instructions and moving a bit further into the realm of creativity. It was interesting because it was a short piece and Chris is such a prolific writer... (he is just beginning to learn that you can do something complete in less than 75,000 words. Ok, I am stretching it a bit, but he is an excellent writer and he can get into some marathon writing stretches.
Sheila didn't read. She is still weeping from her Germany piece. She killed the baby and didn't see it coming. Emotional writing but wow!!! I truly expect her to do something with this piece. It needs to be published.
I missed most of Ann and Don's readings - heavy sigh. Jon and Janet were bold enough to read in front of us. Some first timers aren't... Jon did two poems... and Janet did a couple pieces which were along the lines of journal entries or life memories. I think she really could do a lot with them.
Missi arrived late as usual. (smile) She was, however not the latest. She beat Don! Missi brought some children's poetry that she had been working on. I think this may be a real strong genre for her. I've heard other things she did in the past that were inspired by her four year old son. She also cracked me up with a poem that was a take off on a Toy advertisement. Sometimes she can write stuff that reminds me so of Billy Collins.
I did just two readings.... Poems I have posted here this past week.
Next week we are back at the college for more formal writers workshop. Work without the food and social amenities.
Hosted the Northland Writers group at our home one Sunday, so I was mostly busy getting ready for that ( an a thank you to my family for the help) and I am happy to say it went well.
The only disappointment was that I was up and down quite a bit and as a result didn't get to hear everyone or at least all that they wrote.
My cousin Jon and my wife's step-mother joined us. They have been doing some writing. Jon poetry and Janet is taking a creative writing class. I hope we didn't scare them... Too much!
Scot entertained them with a couple of his "God series" poems. Theology will never be the same.
Chris shared something he created from Pat's workshop... taking liberties with her instructions and moving a bit further into the realm of creativity. It was interesting because it was a short piece and Chris is such a prolific writer... (he is just beginning to learn that you can do something complete in less than 75,000 words. Ok, I am stretching it a bit, but he is an excellent writer and he can get into some marathon writing stretches.
Sheila didn't read. She is still weeping from her Germany piece. She killed the baby and didn't see it coming. Emotional writing but wow!!! I truly expect her to do something with this piece. It needs to be published.
I missed most of Ann and Don's readings - heavy sigh. Jon and Janet were bold enough to read in front of us. Some first timers aren't... Jon did two poems... and Janet did a couple pieces which were along the lines of journal entries or life memories. I think she really could do a lot with them.
Missi arrived late as usual. (smile) She was, however not the latest. She beat Don! Missi brought some children's poetry that she had been working on. I think this may be a real strong genre for her. I've heard other things she did in the past that were inspired by her four year old son. She also cracked me up with a poem that was a take off on a Toy advertisement. Sometimes she can write stuff that reminds me so of Billy Collins.
I did just two readings.... Poems I have posted here this past week.
Next week we are back at the college for more formal writers workshop. Work without the food and social amenities.
Friday, October 08, 2004
wwjd
what would Jesus do
with the burnt ends
of daily embellishments
minutes squandered in omission
social repudiation
over the tops of our noses
scornful of someone
distinctly less
to swell ourselves up
to make something aggrandized
but less
authentic
and sell out humanity
for the price
of a quick upper
what would Jesus do
with egocentric
nose thumbing pride
slurping the cream
and leaving sour
rings on the bottom
for forage
what would Jesus do
with our silly weapons
retained
while we restrain
or triturate anyone else
that poses a thought
of parity
what would Jesus do
with our self-righteousness
in the temple of the would
what would he do
with the burnt ends
of daily embellishments
minutes squandered in omission
social repudiation
over the tops of our noses
scornful of someone
distinctly less
to swell ourselves up
to make something aggrandized
but less
authentic
and sell out humanity
for the price
of a quick upper
what would Jesus do
with egocentric
nose thumbing pride
slurping the cream
and leaving sour
rings on the bottom
for forage
what would Jesus do
with our silly weapons
retained
while we restrain
or triturate anyone else
that poses a thought
of parity
what would Jesus do
with our self-righteousness
in the temple of the would
what would he do
Thursday, October 07, 2004
Take Notice
I declare
a state of intoxication
Exists by overdose
of regulations
from the commonwealth.
The proletariat hereby
restricts your ass from
penetration past this
point.
a state of intoxication
Exists by overdose
of regulations
from the commonwealth.
The proletariat hereby
restricts your ass from
penetration past this
point.
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
It's All Here
the smell of October
damp leaves
the taste
of flying vermin
off course
crashing one’s mouth
the wreckage
spit upon the sidewalk
damp leaves
the taste
of flying vermin
off course
crashing one’s mouth
the wreckage
spit upon the sidewalk
It's Here!!!!!
Pat Berge - co-editor of Under The Telling Tree Anthology e-mailed me today to tell me of the arrival of the proof copies. I called her to see if she was a wired as the e-mail sounded. She was! Good thing she was inside because the sky could not have contained her.
I have three pieces in the anthology which will be available very soon!
I have three pieces in the anthology which will be available very soon!
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
Barry & Bush
Barry, my faithfull Doxie heard a Village in Texas is missing an idiot. He felt obligated to return him to Crawford.
WTG Barry!
WTG Barry!
First Tuesday In October
It's Post Card Poem Tuesday. The first one to be precise.
I just sent off my first poem poet card to Ivy and I have to say, as it disappears at the post office and you turn and walk out the door it is a humbling experience.
Other people are going to read this.... A postman or two and of course another poet. Suddenly, you wish this were something you spent a week or more on, not a spontanious exercise in poetry. [Gulp!]
I just sent off my first poem poet card to Ivy and I have to say, as it disappears at the post office and you turn and walk out the door it is a humbling experience.
Other people are going to read this.... A postman or two and of course another poet. Suddenly, you wish this were something you spent a week or more on, not a spontanious exercise in poetry. [Gulp!]
Monday, October 04, 2004
Zing! I Knew that!
Don't you just hate it when people have to tell you something that you already know before you actually get with the program? Thanks Brian Campbell for your advice thought it is not exactly a new concept.
Yeah, you too Jilly for admonishing me to get off my butt! Just because it's the last quarter of the year, this is no time for a lassitude attitude! Geez!
So, after going through my stuff last night, I sent off two poems today and more forthcoming this week.
Yeah, you too Jilly for admonishing me to get off my butt! Just because it's the last quarter of the year, this is no time for a lassitude attitude! Geez!
So, after going through my stuff last night, I sent off two poems today and more forthcoming this week.
Sunday, October 03, 2004
Naked? I Hardly Noticed
I was not going to comment on the debate. I'm not sure why... I just thought I'd let it stand on its own. After reading Greg's post today, I decided what the hell.
What most struck me about the President in the debate Thursday night was the arrogance of his posturing when John Kerry responded to the moderator. In more instances than not, Bush's look (rolled eyes and all) was as if the say, Well here we go again...
Body language was what spoke strongest about him. It overshadowed everything. Including his nakedness.
Some will say Bush kept it simple and stayed on cue. That this was a good thing. I don't believe he had a choice. What really struck me during the debate was not a totally new revolution, but it was finally one that I believe was confirmed beyond the realm of theory. Bush may not be "stupid" but he lacks the complexity to deal with broader issues that are often not as simple as black and white.
My example:
When Kerry discussed the idea that a preemptive military strike was something so serious that there was a global test or standard that had to be meet, Bush simply did not get it. This is something I have felt strongly about from the beginning. Yet here is the Commander-In-Chief, the man who prides himself in telling us he has what it takes to do this job ( inferring that Kerry lacks it) and he simply was dumbfounded by Kerry's remark.
Many people argue that it is pointless to argue this issue after the barn door was left open and the cow escaped. However, such decisions impact the way the rest of the world views us. In spite of what some people feel, this can become critical. Bush's own simple view is, We'll go to war when we want to and not when someone says it is ok. That is well and good, but the world opinion on this war and the way we prosecute any future wars, may well impact the support we get at some important juncture when there really are WMDs or justification. Will other nations look back and take a pass on supporting us because we cried wolf and there was no wolf? The misrepresentations that occurred and the President's arrogant posturing to any who disagreed with him is of real concern.
There is something we can learn from the mistakes in Iraq. We need to grasp that.
There was something to learn from Vietnam and many still are in denial about that lesson. These are costly mistakes to repeat.
What most struck me about the President in the debate Thursday night was the arrogance of his posturing when John Kerry responded to the moderator. In more instances than not, Bush's look (rolled eyes and all) was as if the say, Well here we go again...
Body language was what spoke strongest about him. It overshadowed everything. Including his nakedness.
Some will say Bush kept it simple and stayed on cue. That this was a good thing. I don't believe he had a choice. What really struck me during the debate was not a totally new revolution, but it was finally one that I believe was confirmed beyond the realm of theory. Bush may not be "stupid" but he lacks the complexity to deal with broader issues that are often not as simple as black and white.
My example:
When Kerry discussed the idea that a preemptive military strike was something so serious that there was a global test or standard that had to be meet, Bush simply did not get it. This is something I have felt strongly about from the beginning. Yet here is the Commander-In-Chief, the man who prides himself in telling us he has what it takes to do this job ( inferring that Kerry lacks it) and he simply was dumbfounded by Kerry's remark.
Many people argue that it is pointless to argue this issue after the barn door was left open and the cow escaped. However, such decisions impact the way the rest of the world views us. In spite of what some people feel, this can become critical. Bush's own simple view is, We'll go to war when we want to and not when someone says it is ok. That is well and good, but the world opinion on this war and the way we prosecute any future wars, may well impact the support we get at some important juncture when there really are WMDs or justification. Will other nations look back and take a pass on supporting us because we cried wolf and there was no wolf? The misrepresentations that occurred and the President's arrogant posturing to any who disagreed with him is of real concern.
There is something we can learn from the mistakes in Iraq. We need to grasp that.
There was something to learn from Vietnam and many still are in denial about that lesson. These are costly mistakes to repeat.
Friday, October 01, 2004
October Already
Ah, Friday at last!
I'm going the a reading tonight of some friends at the Maple Woods College campus. Tomorrow, my youngest daughter has a karate tournament locally. Should be an all day event. I'll take note book and reading material.
I'd like to get a lot done this weekend. It has just hit me that we are down to the final quarter of the year and I don't have much material out floating around right now. I need to make a final push. I've got stuff that can be sent out, just need to do it!
The poet must get off his butt!
I'm going the a reading tonight of some friends at the Maple Woods College campus. Tomorrow, my youngest daughter has a karate tournament locally. Should be an all day event. I'll take note book and reading material.
I'd like to get a lot done this weekend. It has just hit me that we are down to the final quarter of the year and I don't have much material out floating around right now. I need to make a final push. I've got stuff that can be sent out, just need to do it!
The poet must get off his butt!
Thursday, September 30, 2004
C.D. Wright Poem via Chris @ texfiles
Wright of course is the subject of my post yesterday on th MacArthur Fellows
Mixed verbiage
I peeked in on Love During Wartime, which I do from time to time... and wondered, what will James write about and title his blog when war is obsolete? Then I slapped myself in the face in the face and said... Yeah Right!
Pray for Alli's laptop! Poor girl had to use a MAC. I'm sure I must have a prayer here someplace for inanimate objects.
Debate Tonight.... I think they are in Florida. Is that a safe place to be these days?
A Federal Court had problems with a section of the US Patriot Act allowing authorities to demand financial records from companies in terrorism investigations is unconstitutional. The court concluded that the section bars any effective judicial challenge because the government does not need to show a compelling need for the information, and the act does not provide process for challenges to police action. Gee, Imagine that... the Patriot Act violating Constitutional protections.
Mount St. Helens is rumbling
and now, my news in brief....
They Debate tonight
And War will be a topic
Say a prayer
A prayer for peace
A prayer for the troops
That they soon come home
Speaking of home
Bush to Crawford
Soon
Real soon
Pray for Alli's puter
And Constitutional Rights
And speaking of Rights
Protect us
From the Religious Right
That are not Religious
Or Right
Through the intercession
Of St Helen
We Pray...
Pray for Alli's laptop! Poor girl had to use a MAC. I'm sure I must have a prayer here someplace for inanimate objects.
Debate Tonight.... I think they are in Florida. Is that a safe place to be these days?
A Federal Court had problems with a section of the US Patriot Act allowing authorities to demand financial records from companies in terrorism investigations is unconstitutional. The court concluded that the section bars any effective judicial challenge because the government does not need to show a compelling need for the information, and the act does not provide process for challenges to police action. Gee, Imagine that... the Patriot Act violating Constitutional protections.
Mount St. Helens is rumbling
and now, my news in brief....
They Debate tonight
And War will be a topic
Say a prayer
A prayer for peace
A prayer for the troops
That they soon come home
Speaking of home
Bush to Crawford
Soon
Real soon
Pray for Alli's puter
And Constitutional Rights
And speaking of Rights
Protect us
From the Religious Right
That are not Religious
Or Right
Through the intercession
Of St Helen
We Pray...
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Poet Among The 2004 MacArthur Fellows
Poet C.D. Wright - Professor of English at Brown University was on of 23 MacArthur Fellows announced for 2004. The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation provides each winner with $500,000 in "no strings attached" support over the next five years.
The MacArthur Fellows Program is designed to underscore the importance of the creative individual in society. Criteria for the Fellows focuses on their originality, creativity, and the potential to do more in the future. It is not possible to apply for the awards, you must be nominated. The selection involves a rigorous and confidential process. And since no candidates are interviewed directly the selection, the recipient first learns of being named a MacArthur Fellow by way of a phone call from the Foundation. "The call can be life-changing, coming as it does out of the blue and offering highly creative women and men the gift of time and the unfettered opportunity to explore, create, and contribute," said Jonathan F. Fanton, president of the MacArthur Foundation.
The MacArthur Fellows Program is designed to underscore the importance of the creative individual in society. Criteria for the Fellows focuses on their originality, creativity, and the potential to do more in the future. It is not possible to apply for the awards, you must be nominated. The selection involves a rigorous and confidential process. And since no candidates are interviewed directly the selection, the recipient first learns of being named a MacArthur Fellow by way of a phone call from the Foundation. "The call can be life-changing, coming as it does out of the blue and offering highly creative women and men the gift of time and the unfettered opportunity to explore, create, and contribute," said Jonathan F. Fanton, president of the MacArthur Foundation.
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Two Northlanders & A Carpetbagger
Three from the Northland writing group showed up to read at Writers Place last night. Scot, Missi and myself. I being the carpetbagger of the group. They tolerate me, but then they have shortcomings too. They are geographically challenged. They keep referring to me as from the south because I life south of the river... but it is actually way the hell east on the outskirts of hell.
The turnout was.... average. I suppose there were maybe 15 of us. I had some new material. Actually both Scot and Missi had stuff I had not hear before.
The turnout was.... average. I suppose there were maybe 15 of us. I had some new material. Actually both Scot and Missi had stuff I had not hear before.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Though on the word for the day.
Hum... I'm kind of thinking that Ron Silliman would fall into the catagory of a wonk.
Saturday, September 25, 2004
Thursday, September 23, 2004
B&N @ Zona Rosa Last Night
Very nice Reading last night - twenty some in attendence. I think I was most impressed with Missi Rasmussen and Terry Weide last night.
Since it was a new venue for me I was able to do some stuff I’ve read before. Four repeaters and one new piece.
1. Channeling Sylvia
2. File Folder
3. Rewrapping the Flag (new)
4. Sweet Revenge
5. Retirement
The PR person at this B & N is great!
Terry did some short story stuff that was very different from what I have normally seen him do. Missi had a Sharon Olds quality about her last night.
Since it was a new venue for me I was able to do some stuff I’ve read before. Four repeaters and one new piece.
1. Channeling Sylvia
2. File Folder
3. Rewrapping the Flag (new)
4. Sweet Revenge
5. Retirement
The PR person at this B & N is great!
Terry did some short story stuff that was very different from what I have normally seen him do. Missi had a Sharon Olds quality about her last night.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
BANNED IN NY CITY
Eileen Tabios has gone and got herself banned in the Port Jefferson High School. How great is that? The textual mention of her latest poetry book MENAGE A TROIS WITH THE 21ST CENTURY in flyers promoting one of here Poetry Readings evidently was just too much for the Victorian school administration to handle. It must have been the 21st Century part that they had trouble with.
At any rate, I'm sure Eileen must be feeling quite full of herself, being a banned poet and all. [no jealousy here] I'm just hoping that her Filipino twist to "Yadda, yadda, yadda.." is not going to earn her a spot on the "No Fly List" too...
At any rate, I'm sure Eileen must be feeling quite full of herself, being a banned poet and all. [no jealousy here] I'm just hoping that her Filipino twist to "Yadda, yadda, yadda.." is not going to earn her a spot on the "No Fly List" too...
Monday, September 20, 2004
Reading - Wednesday - Sept 22
I am planning to join some Northland writers at the Barnes & Noble booksellers in the new Zona Rosa Shopping Center at 8625 N.W. Berry Road in North Kansas City, Missouri on Wednesday 22nd for an Open Mic.
Sign up starts at 6:30 - Reading I believe begins at 7:00 PM
Sign up starts at 6:30 - Reading I believe begins at 7:00 PM
Sunday, September 19, 2004
Sunday Evening
I am sorry to say the weekend is on the down side. But I have accomplished a fair amount of reading this weekend and did some writing this morning which was with some positive end resolve.
Friday - I got word that one of my two entries in the Senior Poet Laureate contest made it out of the preliminary round. While not a winner, it was nice to know that it made the first cut. The title was Channeling Sylvia. I suppose I can't complain too much... and what good would it do anyway? :)
Friday - I got word that one of my two entries in the Senior Poet Laureate contest made it out of the preliminary round. While not a winner, it was nice to know that it made the first cut. The title was Channeling Sylvia. I suppose I can't complain too much... and what good would it do anyway? :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)