Tanka Reading!

I've uploaded a short reading of my tanka poetry to Youtube. Click on the title above to view it. I hope you enjoy it.

'First Winter Rain' by Denis M. Garrison

I'd like to recommend 'First Winter Rain' by Denis M. Garrison as a must have collection for any serious reader/writer of tanka.

Denis is an excellent poet whose words are full of depth and creativity.
Through this collection he invites us to walk beside him for a while and with clarity and a light touch opens windows on new worlds, as page after page, his poems capture the pain and joy of life, just as it is.

As a writer, editor and publisher of tanka, Denis has given so much to this fast growing poetic form.

Through my early years as a fledgling writer, Denis published, supported and nurtured me and for that I am deeply grateful.

2011 Haiku Pen Contest

I am very happy to announce that I have just been awarded 'Grand Prize' in the 2011 Haiku Pen Contest. You can read my poem alongside the other winners, including the very talented Claire Everett by clicking on the title above.

A BIG thank you to Raquel D. Bailey of Lyrical Passion Poetry E-Zine for all that she brings/gives to the world of poetry.

Also humble thanks to Lee Gurga, editor of Modern Haiku Press, who adjudicated this contest.

Enjoy!

The Quiet of My Heart

Last week Claire Everett and I wrote an impromptu 'Responsive Tanka Set' on Facebook. Claire is an amazing, international award winning poet, who inspires me no end. You may view the set and more of Claire's wonderful work by clicking here

everything
in the world
is beautiful
running my fingers
through my son's hair

100 Followers!!!

I couldn't resist a little post to celebrate the arrival of follower No 100.
Welcome to Paper Moon Roseangela James, Poetess.

It is nearly three years since I ventured (with some trepidation) into the world of 'blogging' and what a great three years they have been.

It can be a lonely world for a poet, (even when widely published in print) with little feedback or comment. All that has changed these past three years and what a blessing it has been.

Above and beyond the comments you have left, I have had the pleasure of encountering some of the finest poets in the world. (oh yes you are!)

The way that our words reach out and touch the lives of others is and must remain for the most part a mystery. However to receive a few words or a response poem, from time to time can lift the veil on that mystery just briefly, and for me at least give such a boost, very often just when I need it.

Above all though just knowing you are here, whether you comment or not, is enough.

So I'd like to thank you ALL (1-100) for walking beside me on this poetic road. Long may it continue...


butterflies
whispering to the wind -
who knows
where our words
will lead?

scent of lilac -
one final breath
after another