In a fit of inspiration and fleeting moment of ambition, I once made a goal to write 100 new poems in thirty days. The following pages contain some first drafts I decided not to include in Ramshackle Houses, my first collection of poetry and creative nonfiction. I’ve since sailed my first completed work across the pond to be considered for publication — news of how it fairs should arrive soon.

On these pages, I will also share APAD celebration poems, and brief fits of new inspiration (always first drafts). Making poetry visible often helps me decide whether or not work should continue or be scrapped. If work continues, I’ll remove the first draft. If I can’t decide what to do with a specific piece, it will remain on the page. Feel free to read — constructive criticism is always welcome.

Updates

March 30, 2015: Vine Leaves Literary Journal released the list of ten quarter-finalists in its 2015 Vignette Collection Award, and Ramshackle Houses made the list!

April 28, 2015: Ramshackle Houses was not named among the semi-finalists and winner. The news arrived by the nicest rejection email ever composed. I really can’t say enough nice things about the folks at Vine Leaves.