September 2012: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Selections

the paper bag
warming in the sun
retains the fragrance
of moss. . .
the fir forest

--Brian Howlett

I beg, Brother Owl,

to make room for ease,
for the wise,
for peace beneath the moon

and room as well
for the wide eyes,

for madness, and your leave to howl.

--Birrell Walsh

In Alexandria

My friend and I stand in the crowd
on the cornice watching the high-born
battle for the harbor.  Beyond,
the ancient library goes up in smoke,
the stink of ages blackening the sky,
all and maybe nothing essential
lost.  Bored standing around
sweat-soaked in the blazing sun
we leave and go to find a drink.

--Patrick Mizelle