Doug Draime
Los Angeles Terminal (Poems 1971-1980)
Covert Press 2008 (www.covertpress.com)
Reviewed by Jack Henry
28 pgs
Before reading Los Angeles Terminal (Poems 1971-1980) I couldn't pick Doug Draime out of a poet line-up to save my sorry ass. Blame that on my lack of being a true reader of the underground press. Doug started out in the 60s and has been a part of the underground arena since. I had no idea what I missed out on.
Covert Press has put out another great chapbook in Los Angeles Terminal. It does what a good chapbook is supposed to do: it makes you hunger for more. Doug Draime is a true poet, one of exquisite talent, insight and observation. He is the bridge between the last Beats, Bukowski and modern writers. He is the poet I want to be.
When I first read this book I got pissed off. There are poets that challenge me, poets that make me laugh and not in a good way, and poets that make me want to shove a sharpened pencil in my eye. Doug made me get my sharpener out.
Twenty-seven poems with acetylene focus outline a darker image of Los Angeles. For those that live here you already know it's a shithole, after reading this book, others will find out. But the color and life put into each line make the visit worthwhile.
More than a few poems stick out.
From Steak & Eggs Special, a haunting look at the search and fear of companionship in the big city.
a girl in a leather dress
a stranger
sits down across from me in a booth
you havin' the special? she asked
yeah i say
i am too she says but adds:
separate checks ok?
ok i agree
It ends w/a kicker.
then she takes her shoe off
& gently puts
a slender
black-nyloned foot
against my crotch
There is certain loneliness and longing in LA that Doug captures well.
From All I knew About Her…
I knew she
chanted at a
box she called
an altar,
words in Japanese,
she didn't
know the
meaning of.
I knew she
feared the
darkness &
ran from the light.
I knew, I knew,
the sound of
her tears.
There's also a great deal of insanity in Los Angeles, which might be true of most cities, but in my travels I have never seen as many crazy people as I do here in LA.
In A Night On The Boards Doug discusses the insanity of trying to get a beer and a sandwich, how reality can explode and mix w/the lunacy of survival.
…Someone laughed as Mary spilled a
pitcher of beer
on her hot new satin dress.
oh, jesus, i thought, all this shit
for a couple of free beers
& a sandwich?
The last poem is perhaps the best, in my opinion. Los Angeles Terminal: After A Friend's Suicide Attempt. It's a piece that harbors a sense of despair, a sense of detachment that is so common here.
…What we thought were smoke singles
(or whatever they were) have stopped
and now there is only the smog.
Indeed.
If you are a slacker asshole like me that never read Doug Draime you need to change that right now. Go to www.covertpoetics.com and buy this book. It is well worth your money, and it will make you appreciate truly great writing.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Three reviews of new Covert Press releases by Jack Henry
…And Death is All Around Us
Michael Grover
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
Review by Jack Henry
"And Death is All Around Us" is an amazing find.
When I read Michael Grover I am never sure what to expect. His words are often tough, angry, belligerent but always honest. In this text, a volume of poems dedicated to his grandmother and a memorial to her recent passing, Grover has gone beyond any expectation I could have had of him.
Not only is the poetry brilliant, it also contains every aspect I look for in a good poem. Heart. Soul. Vibrancy. Compassion. Emotion. Affectation. This is just a solid and complete collection of work.
From "Brushing Grandma's Hair."
"…Later at the dinner table
She speaks of having her hair brushed.
My father and I
Both say that we did it.
We look at each other realizing we've been
conned.
She just smiles knowingly."
This is just a brief glimpse of how important she was both to Michael and his father.
From "A Tough Month."
My father called me
Crying this afternoon.
Grandma went to the doctor,
She is not coming back out.
She is going to the hospice
Where they will prepare her to pass on."
Devastating lines that only dig deeper and deeper, examining the dark spaces that only a true poet can discover.
Michael Grover is also well known for his political points of view and his fearlessness in presenting them. I kept waiting and sure enough it hit, and in a fantastic way. Very sly and true, like a frying pan in the face.
"Huddle House" (Complete)
On the way to her funeral
Father and I stop
At the Huddle House in rural Georgia
We stop
Because it was one of her
Favorite places to eat
The food is greasy
And not so good
On the way out
On the bulletin board
A flyer that says
"Whites Only Party"
In big bold black letters
This is a phenomenal work and the quotes I use truly do not do the text justice. It's a strong, honest, emotional work, so get off your ass and buy this text.
Breaking the Hearts of Robots
Jason "Juice" Hardung
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
Reviewed by Jack Henry
I know Juice.
I've met Juice.
And have heard him read.
Like Wayne Mason, I've never really read Juice.
"Breaking the Hearts of Robots" is an extraordinary volume of poetry. I have always considered Juice one of the best up and coming writers, one of those lions that's biting at an old mans tail and this chapbook does not disappoint.
To my surprise he includes three poems that I included in Heroin Love Songs. Of course, this honest admission will make the reader think that Jack Henry is a patsy to review this. Well fuck you too. If I didn't like it, I'd tell you, and I think Juice would appreciate that.
But I like this volume.
Very much.
One of the key poems in this text is "Sometimes Hamsters Eat Their Young." It is an exceptional poem, filled with a strong voice and tremendous heart. About the reflection of a lost mother as well as a childhood lost, "Hamsters" is revealing and affects any reader.
"…my blue eyes were crying
but not in the rain
in the doorway of our dream…"
"…She said she promised.
I had a hamster once
that had babies
and it chewed most of their heads off."
Amazing, stark and a damning write.
On the flip side is a reflection on fatherhood and its imprint on a child's development.
From "Nurtured Like a Cactus in a Single Man's Apartment."
"I didn't figure out that the shower curtain goes
on the inside of the tub
until I lived on my own
The floor was always wetter than me
and I was a newborn calf
doing splits
every time I tried to stand on my own
Now I just take baths"
Juice Hardung is a bright and honest writer. After a difficult childhood and challenges with substance abuse, he has turned into a powerful voice of a new generation of writers.
I highly recommend this volume.
Waiting for Magic
Wayne Mason
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
I've heard of Wayne Mason, but I've never read Wayne Mason. Other than a few poems here and there, on line and elsewhere, the opportunity to sit and read a complete, however slim, is welcome.
And I wasn't disappointed.
Mason has a strong voice and sense of self within the context of his writing. Vivid, clear and well written, each poem seemingly unfolds a different facet of the writer's persona.
Strongly based in a blue collar work ethic, Mason brings the factory workers world to life.
In "Car Poem" Mason reveals the reality of a working persons life.
Standing over
massive guts
of my car
racing sunlight
to get the beast running
to haul me to work
one more day
Mason also reveals a more subtle, delicate side about being a father.
From "Comassionate Liar…"
"…And, now a father
I realize he was
making it up as
he went along
Like me"
This is a very strong book from a superb Dharma writer.
Michael Grover
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
Review by Jack Henry
"And Death is All Around Us" is an amazing find.
When I read Michael Grover I am never sure what to expect. His words are often tough, angry, belligerent but always honest. In this text, a volume of poems dedicated to his grandmother and a memorial to her recent passing, Grover has gone beyond any expectation I could have had of him.
Not only is the poetry brilliant, it also contains every aspect I look for in a good poem. Heart. Soul. Vibrancy. Compassion. Emotion. Affectation. This is just a solid and complete collection of work.
From "Brushing Grandma's Hair."
"…Later at the dinner table
She speaks of having her hair brushed.
My father and I
Both say that we did it.
We look at each other realizing we've been
conned.
She just smiles knowingly."
This is just a brief glimpse of how important she was both to Michael and his father.
From "A Tough Month."
My father called me
Crying this afternoon.
Grandma went to the doctor,
She is not coming back out.
She is going to the hospice
Where they will prepare her to pass on."
Devastating lines that only dig deeper and deeper, examining the dark spaces that only a true poet can discover.
Michael Grover is also well known for his political points of view and his fearlessness in presenting them. I kept waiting and sure enough it hit, and in a fantastic way. Very sly and true, like a frying pan in the face.
"Huddle House" (Complete)
On the way to her funeral
Father and I stop
At the Huddle House in rural Georgia
We stop
Because it was one of her
Favorite places to eat
The food is greasy
And not so good
On the way out
On the bulletin board
A flyer that says
"Whites Only Party"
In big bold black letters
This is a phenomenal work and the quotes I use truly do not do the text justice. It's a strong, honest, emotional work, so get off your ass and buy this text.
Breaking the Hearts of Robots
Jason "Juice" Hardung
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
Reviewed by Jack Henry
I know Juice.
I've met Juice.
And have heard him read.
Like Wayne Mason, I've never really read Juice.
"Breaking the Hearts of Robots" is an extraordinary volume of poetry. I have always considered Juice one of the best up and coming writers, one of those lions that's biting at an old mans tail and this chapbook does not disappoint.
To my surprise he includes three poems that I included in Heroin Love Songs. Of course, this honest admission will make the reader think that Jack Henry is a patsy to review this. Well fuck you too. If I didn't like it, I'd tell you, and I think Juice would appreciate that.
But I like this volume.
Very much.
One of the key poems in this text is "Sometimes Hamsters Eat Their Young." It is an exceptional poem, filled with a strong voice and tremendous heart. About the reflection of a lost mother as well as a childhood lost, "Hamsters" is revealing and affects any reader.
"…my blue eyes were crying
but not in the rain
in the doorway of our dream…"
"…She said she promised.
I had a hamster once
that had babies
and it chewed most of their heads off."
Amazing, stark and a damning write.
On the flip side is a reflection on fatherhood and its imprint on a child's development.
From "Nurtured Like a Cactus in a Single Man's Apartment."
"I didn't figure out that the shower curtain goes
on the inside of the tub
until I lived on my own
The floor was always wetter than me
and I was a newborn calf
doing splits
every time I tried to stand on my own
Now I just take baths"
Juice Hardung is a bright and honest writer. After a difficult childhood and challenges with substance abuse, he has turned into a powerful voice of a new generation of writers.
I highly recommend this volume.
Waiting for Magic
Wayne Mason
Covert Press
34 pgs
available at www.covertpress.com
I've heard of Wayne Mason, but I've never read Wayne Mason. Other than a few poems here and there, on line and elsewhere, the opportunity to sit and read a complete, however slim, is welcome.
And I wasn't disappointed.
Mason has a strong voice and sense of self within the context of his writing. Vivid, clear and well written, each poem seemingly unfolds a different facet of the writer's persona.
Strongly based in a blue collar work ethic, Mason brings the factory workers world to life.
In "Car Poem" Mason reveals the reality of a working persons life.
Standing over
massive guts
of my car
racing sunlight
to get the beast running
to haul me to work
one more day
Mason also reveals a more subtle, delicate side about being a father.
From "Comassionate Liar…"
"…And, now a father
I realize he was
making it up as
he went along
Like me"
This is a very strong book from a superb Dharma writer.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Review of John Dorsey's new book by Jack Henry
"Holy Toledo! The Sonnet River Volume"John DorseySleepy Brooklyn Colorado 2008137 pgsHardcover
"Holy Toledo!" is not a great title. This may piss off the writer or whoever came up w/it, but it reminds me of a Loonie Tunes Cartoon. And that image is 180 degrees from the strength of content just as All-American blue balled christians are 180 degrees from reality. That's my only complaint. Well nearly so. "Holy Toledo" is organized by year, 2007 to 2003. That is how it is organized in the text and that's a mistake. The poetry of John Dorsey is a journey, deeply metaphysical and metaphorical, but a challeng-ing flight of growth and evolution. Putting newer poems to the front denies the reader to get the sense of growth, however subtle, however nuanced, of the poet. End complaints. John Dorsey is a terrific poet. I used to think I was a poet but after reading Dorsey I realized I am a grave digger. With his unique use of what I call asymmetric meter, Dorsey's poetry challenges the reader. It is different each time. While reviewing the text I read it several times, including back to front a couple of times. Below is an example of this asymmetric meter:
From "canadian basement blues"
it's true i saw
a girl dreaming zombie
blues shooting pennies out
of her little mary
sunshine until abraham lincoln
got up and walked
off she was the
ghost of calamity
jane
Dorsey denies the reader punctuation to know where the starts and stops should be, thus truly forcing the reader to insert their own measure and rhythm to a piece, and also forcing absolute reader interpretation of a given lines, stanzas and entire poems. This is subtle but very calculated. Any other poet might break blues and shooting pennies out on the third line of the above selection. Also, off and she was the from the seventh stanza might require a break but it would change meaning, and it would falsify the meter of style. Another style characteristic true to a Dorsey poem are the one liners, or one-off's, that may or may not hold value within the piece as a whole, but often demand their own attention in a singular us-age. For example: From "mermaid blues"
when you're 16 yrs
old every little thing
feels like a love
song written in the
key of a minor apocalypse
A damning start to a great poem.
Again the use of asymmetric meter and a purposeful lack of punctuation force the reader to interpret and think for him or herself. One of the best examples of a Dorsey poem is listed below in its entirety:
"the last stencils on earth"
it figures that the
last product of real
revolution would be hiding
in some cellar in
mexico pancho villa
gene bloom together
swallowing words soaked in
blood fighting mad in
the sacramento sun they
don't make bullets like
this anymore some say
they never
did
The cadence and meter are strong but jagged, meaning that it is not a simplistic, linear voice, rather it rattles the reader in the manner they look at and absorb the words. It is challenging, intelligent but by no means simplistic. There is a great depth that the first blush and understanding.
This again points to my desire to have the format changed from new to old to old to new. You get a greater sense of the poet's growth. His form develops. Some of the poems from 2003 and 2004 dig at the beginning of style.
from "pink plastic flamingos"
exist simply
for those
who refuse
to put
a limit
on miracles
and everyone
else, well
fuck them
anyway
The ending is too easy. However by 2007 section you have a seemingly simplistic poem that is anything but:
the ballad of ass masterson
america is a sad
cowboy song of unrequited
hate edited to the
teeth with love one
nation wire tapped under
god with liberty and
bootlegged sex tapes for
all
This is Dorsey in full effect. To conclude, John Dorsey is one the finest writers of this generation and writes to a level many poets should aspire too. Often a poet will write without a sense of style, I am guilty of this, many are, but if you write long enough, and are honest enough, your style becomes the yoke of every day writing. Dorsey has this. "Holy Toledo! The Sonnet River Volume" is a great book. It includes many of my favorites by Dorsey and newer ones I am unfamiliar. You get a sense of the growth of the poet's eye and voice, as well as a definitive style. I highly recommend adding this volume to your collection. The book is 30 bucks and can be ordered by e-mailing luc.simonic@gmail.com ~Jack Henry
"Holy Toledo!" is not a great title. This may piss off the writer or whoever came up w/it, but it reminds me of a Loonie Tunes Cartoon. And that image is 180 degrees from the strength of content just as All-American blue balled christians are 180 degrees from reality. That's my only complaint. Well nearly so. "Holy Toledo" is organized by year, 2007 to 2003. That is how it is organized in the text and that's a mistake. The poetry of John Dorsey is a journey, deeply metaphysical and metaphorical, but a challeng-ing flight of growth and evolution. Putting newer poems to the front denies the reader to get the sense of growth, however subtle, however nuanced, of the poet. End complaints. John Dorsey is a terrific poet. I used to think I was a poet but after reading Dorsey I realized I am a grave digger. With his unique use of what I call asymmetric meter, Dorsey's poetry challenges the reader. It is different each time. While reviewing the text I read it several times, including back to front a couple of times. Below is an example of this asymmetric meter:
From "canadian basement blues"
it's true i saw
a girl dreaming zombie
blues shooting pennies out
of her little mary
sunshine until abraham lincoln
got up and walked
off she was the
ghost of calamity
jane
Dorsey denies the reader punctuation to know where the starts and stops should be, thus truly forcing the reader to insert their own measure and rhythm to a piece, and also forcing absolute reader interpretation of a given lines, stanzas and entire poems. This is subtle but very calculated. Any other poet might break blues and shooting pennies out on the third line of the above selection. Also, off and she was the from the seventh stanza might require a break but it would change meaning, and it would falsify the meter of style. Another style characteristic true to a Dorsey poem are the one liners, or one-off's, that may or may not hold value within the piece as a whole, but often demand their own attention in a singular us-age. For example: From "mermaid blues"
when you're 16 yrs
old every little thing
feels like a love
song written in the
key of a minor apocalypse
A damning start to a great poem.
Again the use of asymmetric meter and a purposeful lack of punctuation force the reader to interpret and think for him or herself. One of the best examples of a Dorsey poem is listed below in its entirety:
"the last stencils on earth"
it figures that the
last product of real
revolution would be hiding
in some cellar in
mexico pancho villa
gene bloom together
swallowing words soaked in
blood fighting mad in
the sacramento sun they
don't make bullets like
this anymore some say
they never
did
The cadence and meter are strong but jagged, meaning that it is not a simplistic, linear voice, rather it rattles the reader in the manner they look at and absorb the words. It is challenging, intelligent but by no means simplistic. There is a great depth that the first blush and understanding.
This again points to my desire to have the format changed from new to old to old to new. You get a greater sense of the poet's growth. His form develops. Some of the poems from 2003 and 2004 dig at the beginning of style.
from "pink plastic flamingos"
exist simply
for those
who refuse
to put
a limit
on miracles
and everyone
else, well
fuck them
anyway
The ending is too easy. However by 2007 section you have a seemingly simplistic poem that is anything but:
the ballad of ass masterson
america is a sad
cowboy song of unrequited
hate edited to the
teeth with love one
nation wire tapped under
god with liberty and
bootlegged sex tapes for
all
This is Dorsey in full effect. To conclude, John Dorsey is one the finest writers of this generation and writes to a level many poets should aspire too. Often a poet will write without a sense of style, I am guilty of this, many are, but if you write long enough, and are honest enough, your style becomes the yoke of every day writing. Dorsey has this. "Holy Toledo! The Sonnet River Volume" is a great book. It includes many of my favorites by Dorsey and newer ones I am unfamiliar. You get a sense of the growth of the poet's eye and voice, as well as a definitive style. I highly recommend adding this volume to your collection. The book is 30 bucks and can be ordered by e-mailing luc.simonic@gmail.com ~Jack Henry
Monday, August 25, 2008
M.L. Heath "Sacred Grounds" Review
Michael Layne Heath/Sacred Grounds/Kendra Stiener Editions #78 Review by Michael D. Grover
Short and an easy read. Eight poems in ten pages. The poems are hard, real and urban from the streets of San Francisco. The cheap, by the week hotel side of San Francisco, the darker side. It's kinda short but well written and worth the four bucks. Available here: http://kendrasteinereditions.wordpress.com/
Short and an easy read. Eight poems in ten pages. The poems are hard, real and urban from the streets of San Francisco. The cheap, by the week hotel side of San Francisco, the darker side. It's kinda short but well written and worth the four bucks. Available here: http://kendrasteinereditions.wordpress.com/
Sunday, July 6, 2008
An Urgent Message From Brother John Dorsey!
Support The Cause!
owe the irs a few pounds of flesh and i don't like the thought of jail...am looking to sell some pieces from my collection, just stuff in my room--which is still a vast 3 of books, if interested e-mail me archerevans@yahoo.com and we can talk about what i have available. this isn't really something i want to do, but i am out of options.
thanks,
john
owe the irs a few pounds of flesh and i don't like the thought of jail...am looking to sell some pieces from my collection, just stuff in my room--which is still a vast 3 of books, if interested e-mail me archerevans@yahoo.com and we can talk about what i have available. this isn't really something i want to do, but i am out of options.
thanks,
john
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Review Of Dan Provost's Weathered Woman by Michael Grover
Dan Provost/Weathered Woman/Ink Stain Dagger Press: There is a rough harshness to the poems of Dan Provost. A truth hard and cold like the city streetsthat we walk, and live. Buried somewhere in the layers is a beauty, compassion, and humanity that I believe balances all of the harshness. This rings true in this chapbook. It hits as hard as a big bruiser like Dan. It does not miss itsmark. This is what makes Provost what I consider to be a giant in the underground press. I love the poems"Damn Women Asking Me Questions", and "The Softball Player Moonlighting As A Hooker". But every poem is good.$8.00/Inkstained Dagger Press/2413 Collingwood Blvd. Studio 404/Toledo, Ohio 43620/ISDpress @ gmail.com
Monday, March 31, 2008
Wayne Mason/A Lifetime Of Mondays reviewed by Michael Grover
Wayne Mason is definitely a poet that I can relate to. Coming from a small nowhere Florida town much like myself. I recognize the hopelessnessin his words, in fact the only hope is destruction. This short book of poems covers Wayne the aging poet staying in that same Florida town. Itis written unpretentiously in a language that common people would understand. His poems speak of images that he has of the factory that he worksin burning down with the bosses still inside and ash raining on their luxury cars parked outside. Mason is a working class poet who would ratherhang out in a working class bar, with a jukebox so outdated it still has Monk on it, than hang out in a coffee shop with a bunch of trendy kids.I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes real poetry, cold and hard like concrete. My favorite poem of this collection would be Cries OfThe World, where he calls on Kannon the goddess of compassion, but there is not a bad one in here. It is 6 dollars post paid P.O. Box 90945, Lakeland Fl 33804.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Review Of JD Nelson's It Resembles Itself
J.D. Nelson/It Resembles Itself/www.madverse.com/
This is the point where poetry, meets sci-fi, meets reality and it's a busy intersection.This short collection of poems comes out of the unique mind of J.D. Nelson. The book itselfresembles Lumox Press's Little Red Books only it's yellow. But that's irrelivant. What isrelivant is that these poems are surreal art, anti-corporate, and anti-establishment.There is nothing wrong with that right?
This is the point where poetry, meets sci-fi, meets reality and it's a busy intersection.This short collection of poems comes out of the unique mind of J.D. Nelson. The book itselfresembles Lumox Press's Little Red Books only it's yellow. But that's irrelivant. What isrelivant is that these poems are surreal art, anti-corporate, and anti-establishment.There is nothing wrong with that right?
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Dreams That Would Kill Most Men
From John Dorsey:
Book info below...let me just say that this the most beautiful book S.A. has done for me yet, only have 3 copies so i can’t give any away, and i might be willing to part with one but that will cost you more than getting it from the publishers, so that is best...’Dreams That Would Drown Most Men’By John Dorsey & Amanda OaksPublished by Rose of Sharon PressDesigned by S.A. GriffinEdited by S.A. Griffin and David SmithLimited to 50 copies, all signed.$20pp.--a definite steal:) This is a full sized book, not a chap...Payable to S.A. GriffinRose of Sharon Press P.O. Box 29171Los Angeles, CA 90027-0171
Book info below...let me just say that this the most beautiful book S.A. has done for me yet, only have 3 copies so i can’t give any away, and i might be willing to part with one but that will cost you more than getting it from the publishers, so that is best...’Dreams That Would Drown Most Men’By John Dorsey & Amanda OaksPublished by Rose of Sharon PressDesigned by S.A. GriffinEdited by S.A. Griffin and David SmithLimited to 50 copies, all signed.$20pp.--a definite steal:) This is a full sized book, not a chap...Payable to S.A. GriffinRose of Sharon Press P.O. Box 29171Los Angeles, CA 90027-0171
Saturday, March 15, 2008
The Poem Surge
I've decided since Bush's troop surge seems to be going so well I would attempt a Poem surge throughout this month. He might have a point to this. It's going well.
Yesterday I woke up to the news that I was published in The Beatnik I woke up to the news that my work was up in Beat The Dust.
We expect many more victories this month for the Rebel Army against the empire. Stay tuned . . .
Yesterday I woke up to the news that I was published in The Beatnik I woke up to the news that my work was up in Beat The Dust.
We expect many more victories this month for the Rebel Army against the empire. Stay tuned . . .
Friday, March 14, 2008
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Micahel Grover Interviews John Dorsey @ Outsider Writers
I was asked to do it and I figured it wouldn't be a conflict of interest and I was glad he didn't mention the chapbook.
http://www.outsiderwriters.org/content/view/637/1/
http://www.outsiderwriters.org/content/view/637/1/
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
John Dorsey reviews John G. Hall's "Me And My Broken Mouth"
It’s All About Rhythm: A few words on John G. Hall’s ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’By John Dorsey
I won’t claim to be an expert on the litrary career ofseasoned poet/editor John G. Hall, in fact his latestoffering from Covert Press was my first experiencesampling his words. Hall has been noted for writingabout love, life, childhood, & politics, in simplerterms the stuff of every day life. ‘Me and My BrokenMouth’ continues in that vein.
Hall is a poet who lays his feelings bear on the page,wears his heart & words on his sleeve, all that...Onecan feel the bite of his words and his personalpolitics throughout ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’. Havingbeen called a political poet more than once myself, Imust admit I feel a kinship with both the poet and hispolitical views.
These things being said, I think Hall is at his bestwhen speechless in the face of the wonder of every daymiracles, rather than the politics that get in the wayof truly living our lives to the fullest, somethingthat from reading his book, I’m sure Hall believes invery very strongly.
Would I recommend ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ toreaders of modern poetry? Yes and no, if you arecoming to poetry expecting flowers, puppies, or modernsonnets of love, well John G. Hall may just punch youin the stomach, though if you have an appetite blood,guts, and world issues that truly matter, then you mayjust find ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ well worth coughingup more than a little blood for.
I’ll leave you with a few lines from the title poem,also my favorite from the book...
Me and My Broken Mouth
Me and my broken mouth are not worth listening to, solisten instead to the dust and the dazzle of thisevening’s constellation,to the jumping jacks of our our hearts, to the beat-ing mantra of the waves,please do not listen to me and my broken mouth,while miracles happen.
-John G. Hall
‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ is available for $5pp.from Covert PressPO Box 1057/Port Salerno, Fl 34992.Make checks payable to Michael Grover
I won’t claim to be an expert on the litrary career ofseasoned poet/editor John G. Hall, in fact his latestoffering from Covert Press was my first experiencesampling his words. Hall has been noted for writingabout love, life, childhood, & politics, in simplerterms the stuff of every day life. ‘Me and My BrokenMouth’ continues in that vein.
Hall is a poet who lays his feelings bear on the page,wears his heart & words on his sleeve, all that...Onecan feel the bite of his words and his personalpolitics throughout ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’. Havingbeen called a political poet more than once myself, Imust admit I feel a kinship with both the poet and hispolitical views.
These things being said, I think Hall is at his bestwhen speechless in the face of the wonder of every daymiracles, rather than the politics that get in the wayof truly living our lives to the fullest, somethingthat from reading his book, I’m sure Hall believes invery very strongly.
Would I recommend ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ toreaders of modern poetry? Yes and no, if you arecoming to poetry expecting flowers, puppies, or modernsonnets of love, well John G. Hall may just punch youin the stomach, though if you have an appetite blood,guts, and world issues that truly matter, then you mayjust find ‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ well worth coughingup more than a little blood for.
I’ll leave you with a few lines from the title poem,also my favorite from the book...
Me and My Broken Mouth
Me and my broken mouth are not worth listening to, solisten instead to the dust and the dazzle of thisevening’s constellation,to the jumping jacks of our our hearts, to the beat-ing mantra of the waves,please do not listen to me and my broken mouth,while miracles happen.
-John G. Hall
‘Me and My Broken Mouth’ is available for $5pp.from Covert PressPO Box 1057/Port Salerno, Fl 34992.Make checks payable to Michael Grover
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Archived
I was on the Mo Green Show a couple of months ago and you can hear it http://www.blogtalkradio.com/onword/2007/12/02/The-Moe-Green-Poetry-Hour-Hosted-By-Rafael-F-J-Alvarado-Stacey-Mangiaracina there.
Stephen Morse live on internet radio!
Sunday 2/24. 5:00 pm EST.
Or it will be archived here: http//www.janecrown.com
Or it will be archived here: http//www.janecrown.com
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Factotum
I watched Factotum last night. I know very writerly of me. My first impression is that Matt Dylan plays Henry Chinasky much better than Mickey Rorque did. My second impression is that I know it's been a while since I read Factotum but it seems to me Hollywood worked their magic and changed and added a few scences to make it seem more entertaining. Which has to be expected. It's Hollywood right? The movie was good, entertaining. I think Matt Dylan did a good job of capturing the "I don't give a fuck" attitude of Bukowski and the adventures in the book translated well on the screen.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Straight From The Desk Of Covert Press
Coming soon (Within the next couple of weeks) on Covert Press:
CP #4: Michael Grover "The Man That Lives In The Park"
CP #5: John Dorsey "The Ghost Of Hellen Keller"
Still available:
CP #3: John G. Hall "Me And My Broken Mouth"
Special offer you can get one of these chapbooks for five dollars or get all three of them for ten. That's right three for the price of two!
PO Box 1057
Port Salerno, Fl 34992
Make payments to Michael Grover
CP #4: Michael Grover "The Man That Lives In The Park"
CP #5: John Dorsey "The Ghost Of Hellen Keller"
Still available:
CP #3: John G. Hall "Me And My Broken Mouth"
Special offer you can get one of these chapbooks for five dollars or get all three of them for ten. That's right three for the price of two!
PO Box 1057
Port Salerno, Fl 34992
Make payments to Michael Grover
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Who Owns The Poems?
Alright I know last time I posted a rant like this on OW hell broke loose so lets hope we can be a little more civil. I am not really saying anyone is wrong, I am just givin' us all something to think about.
Simultaneous submissions, how is it a pain in the ass to editors and the small press? As an editor in the small press I will say personally I could care less if this poem appears in one or even a hundred of other places. I mean who am I to say I have exclusive rights to someone elses poem? I guess it is up to the individual but I don't see the big deal. -MDG
Simultaneous submissions, how is it a pain in the ass to editors and the small press? As an editor in the small press I will say personally I could care less if this poem appears in one or even a hundred of other places. I mean who am I to say I have exclusive rights to someone elses poem? I guess it is up to the individual but I don't see the big deal. -MDG
Monday, February 4, 2008
Book Review Corner
Somebody Blew Up America & Other Poems by Amiri Baraka/House Of Nehesi Publishers: There was not a doubt in my mind that Amiri Baraka is the most dynamic Poet alive today, and this book confirms what I already knew. This is Baraka in typical style and form. He never misses a beat, he is not afraid to say what needs to be said, and as always he provokes thought. This is a short look at his work as the book is 55 pages and there are a couple of long pieces in it. Seven Poems and a rant in the back.
Everybody knows Somebody Blew Up America and what a briliant Poem that is. Why Is We Americans? is also a particularly briliant Poem. The best piece in here I have to say would have to be In Town which appeared as a track on a Roots album a few years ago. This Poem is brilinatly written and layered. Honestly it is one of the best Poems I have ever read. So I highly recomend if you read this that you go to amazon.com and order this book. It is well work it. -M.D.G.
Everybody knows Somebody Blew Up America and what a briliant Poem that is. Why Is We Americans? is also a particularly briliant Poem. The best piece in here I have to say would have to be In Town which appeared as a track on a Roots album a few years ago. This Poem is brilinatly written and layered. Honestly it is one of the best Poems I have ever read. So I highly recomend if you read this that you go to amazon.com and order this book. It is well work it. -M.D.G.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Roundtable
There is a new round table up at Outsider Writers discussing the small press. I guess I play the bad guy there. I kinda tell it like it is. If you read it you'll notice most people avoid responding to anything I have to say like the plague. The fact that they might acknowledge it might have some validity. Maybe I'm blowing it out of proportion. I'm kinda not with OW anymore for the same reason really. So the question remains, why am I still doing it? That's somethin' I'm gonna have to think about. Anyway read the round table http://www.outsiderwriters.org/content/view/614/44/ and let me know your thoughts.
FYI just to show you how disingenuous it is the person I suspect got published as a favor a few blogs back was one of the people bitching about cronyism. Nothing surprises me anymore. Maybe it's time to rise above the bullshit.
FYI just to show you how disingenuous it is the person I suspect got published as a favor a few blogs back was one of the people bitching about cronyism. Nothing surprises me anymore. Maybe it's time to rise above the bullshit.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
The Lummox Journal pays tribute to Philomene Long
Raindog posted a nice tribute to the recently depated beat legend Philomene Long http://www.lummoxpress.com/journal/j002/. Check it out. It's nicely done. And check out what he's got goin' on while you're there.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Call For Submissions Debbie says time is running out!
am now currently taking submissions for the follow up to Dope. An Anthology about the changes and decline in the small press. I'm soliciting for a lot of stuff, so if you are randomly submitting please put random in the subject line.poems, fiction, essays, stories, you guys have free reign to express your feelings about this subject in any way you want (as long as it kicks ass). Basically I want to know how you feel about the changes in the small press. I want to know if you think its good and why? I want to know if you think a generation of myspacers has attempted to turn the small press into a starbucks.I don't care if you have written 500 novels. I don't care if I've never heard of you. I don't care if I like you and I do not care if you like me.What I want is the best of the best of the best. a celebration of the old school small press, and a mourning at the same time.please send all subs to sinncity66613@yahoo.com no date on this. it won't be released untill it is fucking Majorly the most kick ass thing ever printed. So, please be patient if i don't respond to you right away. i woke up with 40 subs so...and...go..One last "shot" for the small pressi can't believe i got thru this entire email without using the word dick dance.PLEASE spread the word to the people who don't have myspace or emails that I can take mail submissions.1324 Willow St. Apt A Charlottesville, VA 22902I will also be mailing out flyers to those whom i know have no access to the internet.everyone keeps writing and asking for the submission guidelines.1. it should be really really good2. fuck guidelines, this is an open format.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Structure
D-Man, nice to see you around. It's not as cold here in the sunshine state, but just as dreary on this MLK Day. Cloudy, and windy,some rain mixed in.
I've been movin' in the other direction away from structure. More than before if that is at all possible. Anyone who knows me, knows I do have a big problem with rules and structure and that is reflected in my attitude toward Poetry. For christmasI got a gift certificate for amazon so I picked up a couple of Michael McClure books. Man I thought I rebelled against structure. This cat really rebels against structure, and is totally reforming the way I look at Poetry. I don't know what the impact willbe because I am still going through this phase, but it's gonna impact my Poetry more than anything has in years. One thing that will stay the same is haiku. I've written thousands of haiku, all to the rhythm of five, seven, five and I find it a comfortable rhythm. Even though the argument could be made that Japanese sylables are shorter than English ones, I just find this rhythm relaxing. If you read McClure's haiku they are scattered all over some of them eight lines long. The only thing that is pretty universal is that each line is short and breath like. For now I am gonna stick to the structure of haiku, it works forme, and I see no reason to change it. So I'll keep goin' till I do.
I've been movin' in the other direction away from structure. More than before if that is at all possible. Anyone who knows me, knows I do have a big problem with rules and structure and that is reflected in my attitude toward Poetry. For christmasI got a gift certificate for amazon so I picked up a couple of Michael McClure books. Man I thought I rebelled against structure. This cat really rebels against structure, and is totally reforming the way I look at Poetry. I don't know what the impact willbe because I am still going through this phase, but it's gonna impact my Poetry more than anything has in years. One thing that will stay the same is haiku. I've written thousands of haiku, all to the rhythm of five, seven, five and I find it a comfortable rhythm. Even though the argument could be made that Japanese sylables are shorter than English ones, I just find this rhythm relaxing. If you read McClure's haiku they are scattered all over some of them eight lines long. The only thing that is pretty universal is that each line is short and breath like. For now I am gonna stick to the structure of haiku, it works forme, and I see no reason to change it. So I'll keep goin' till I do.
Mind the thought
Toiling on in seemingly endless vain to comprehend the relevance of my own vision has lead me to contemplate language. It is sure that language is the most effective tool of oppression, but conversely and inherently, if we can accrpt that fact as truth, it is also the best bet for our liberation. Ah, that ever present duality, and the challange we face to accept real unity without judgment in our lives and art. I am listening to Antonio Carlos on this chilly MLK day and it has enrobed me in a warmth of spirit. I am encouraged by this and the intellectual postmodern poetic construct, but in no way do I feel obligated to employ it, though employ it I feel I will. The neo formalists to the left of me have me convinced that there is a need for metrical form as a way to define poetry, and this concept sings to me. Simultaneously in my right ear the language and pomo aesthetic to rage free and unfettered into the outskirts and margins on paths cut with my own greased up blade holds its own appeal. Funny, in that context the pomo almost seems more imperialist in nature than the seemingly constrained poetic traditionalists. Of course, that is only a matter of context. Well there is a lot to think about and tons more to do. I want to leave you with a quote, so here you go.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow mindedness."
Mark Twain.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow mindedness."
Mark Twain.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
What is one's blogsphere of influence?
Hello. Is there anybody there? Thanks for the elbow room Michael. I never thought I'd do this, and here I am. Feels wonderful to engage in dialogue in cyberspace, who'd a thought it?
I really wanted to chime in when I saw your last post, because I have been thinking of this subject a lot lately. I want to say how very right you are Michael. We have to follow are own senses and tastes, as artists this is absolutely crucial. Only then can we move further away from these near fictitious gate keepers of literature and what they want to market and who they want to fund. There is a need for a free space of our own creation with no need for "commercial" validation. Nor do we need the halls of academia dictating taste, whether they be new formalists or language poets.
It is in this interest that I'd like to attempt to pose a question for our discussion. Is Free verse true freedom or a lazy crafts persons way out? I know what I think, but I want to know what others think.
I really wanted to chime in when I saw your last post, because I have been thinking of this subject a lot lately. I want to say how very right you are Michael. We have to follow are own senses and tastes, as artists this is absolutely crucial. Only then can we move further away from these near fictitious gate keepers of literature and what they want to market and who they want to fund. There is a need for a free space of our own creation with no need for "commercial" validation. Nor do we need the halls of academia dictating taste, whether they be new formalists or language poets.
It is in this interest that I'd like to attempt to pose a question for our discussion. Is Free verse true freedom or a lazy crafts persons way out? I know what I think, but I want to know what others think.
A Rant From The Underground by: Michael Grover
An editor of a zine recently admitted to me that he chose a poem that was pretty average over mine as a favor to a friend. This is no suprise it just confirmed what I already knew, the underground press is just as corrupt as the mainstream. This thing that should be an alternative to mainstream publishing is just as bad if not worse. They did not mention who this person was, but I can look at the list of people published in their next issue and take a pretty good guess. Am I the only one that is sick of seeing the same names, and the same watered down crap for poems by them? The same shock & awe sex & violence, because they know that's what is marketed to the american people? If not then the same formulated safe lame style? And these poems are not even there because they are good. I must say this works pretty good if you are one of those people, but for the rest of us it is just another flawed corrupt american system.
At this point in my rant I'm sure a lot of you are wondering what the point is, or if I'm just gonna bitch and be bitter and pissed off about it. Yes, talk is cheap, the question is "What am I gonna do about it?" I am doing my part and if you agree with what I'm saying I would urge each of you to do yours. I'm not saying we can change this whole damn system, let them have it. What we can do is create our own systems where their rules don't matter. This is my contribution let's see yours http://covert.poetics.googlepages.com/home.
At this point in my rant I'm sure a lot of you are wondering what the point is, or if I'm just gonna bitch and be bitter and pissed off about it. Yes, talk is cheap, the question is "What am I gonna do about it?" I am doing my part and if you agree with what I'm saying I would urge each of you to do yours. I'm not saying we can change this whole damn system, let them have it. What we can do is create our own systems where their rules don't matter. This is my contribution let's see yours http://covert.poetics.googlepages.com/home.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Haiga by Michael Grover
Saint Lucie Locks Haiku #390
the creek is flowing
full of water from the rain
green leaves all around
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
HUGE NEWS: Covert Press release chapbook by UK Poet John G. Hall!
Covert Press is pleased to announce the release of the new John G. Hall chapbook "Me And My Broken Mouth". Just send 5 bucks to PO Box 1057/ Port Salerno, Fl 34992. Make checks payable to Michael Grover. Thanks!
"John's a must read, check it out..." George Wallace,NYC Poet.
"John G. Hall comes out swinging from the left, trying to wake the reader from the endless nightmare insanity of a world obsessed with war all the time, soldiered by the machinery of corporate greed and religious fascism. John throws hard, pitching beatific curves with hope, heart and a hunger for peace, coming at you from the Doc Williams school of poetry as news; read all about it."S.A. Griffin, co-editor The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry
"When John Hall's word touch the page they do so with grace and humility. I sometimes feel that John is the reluctant poet observing humanity like a bystander who does not know his place. John preaches without a pulpit and if you let him in without batting your eyes you too will find yourself on the other side of the fence wondering what just happened. But in John's case he does something about it. He dips his rough hands into the velvet of life and leaves behind a trail of metaphor and simile and two things even more important than that - heart and soul. "Larry Jaffe - Poet, Human Rights Activist & United Nations Cultural Organiser
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Paul Skyrm Chapbook Review
Beating Wings Flicker The Moon by: Paul SkyrmSelf Published ChapbookReviewed by: Michael D. Grover
Let me just start off by saying that it is downright criminal that writers like this are struggling and publishing their own work. On the other hand it is a sign of the strong will of the artist, and their dedication to the craft. But this is what it is. Thirty-two pages,all photo-copied, packed full with fifteen poems. Very professionally done. Paul Skyrm is one of the most refreshing, and original voices in underground literature. Morbid at times, hopeful at times, at times spiritual. Always powerful, and brilliant at his choice of language. Of the fifteen poems every one is a hit, there are no misses. My personal favorites are Blake Spoke Of This, Bullet Brain, and after reading Tu Fu & Umeshu I honestly had to put the book down, and just say "Whoa." to myself. Paul as an artists and a writer should be read by many. If you know his stuff, you probably know this. If you don't you need to find out. I happen to know he is practically giving these gems away at a very fair price that would be affordable for even the most modest budget. ContactPaul at http://www.myspace.com/tonightthedeadprayforus and work out the details. You won'tbe disappointed. -MDG
Let me just start off by saying that it is downright criminal that writers like this are struggling and publishing their own work. On the other hand it is a sign of the strong will of the artist, and their dedication to the craft. But this is what it is. Thirty-two pages,all photo-copied, packed full with fifteen poems. Very professionally done. Paul Skyrm is one of the most refreshing, and original voices in underground literature. Morbid at times, hopeful at times, at times spiritual. Always powerful, and brilliant at his choice of language. Of the fifteen poems every one is a hit, there are no misses. My personal favorites are Blake Spoke Of This, Bullet Brain, and after reading Tu Fu & Umeshu I honestly had to put the book down, and just say "Whoa." to myself. Paul as an artists and a writer should be read by many. If you know his stuff, you probably know this. If you don't you need to find out. I happen to know he is practically giving these gems away at a very fair price that would be affordable for even the most modest budget. ContactPaul at http://www.myspace.com/tonightthedeadprayforus and work out the details. You won'tbe disappointed. -MDG
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