Three for this Tuesday: Poem in Your Pocket

 Adele Kenny chose:

“Why I Wake Early” by Mary Oliver

Adele explains:  This poem is a mini-lesson in gratitude, in paying attention, and in reverence. It’s a poem about waking that wakes us up (emphasis on “up”). The poem’s spiritual literacy is based in profound attention to the natural world. Accessibility and immediacy come together through the ordinary miracles of morning and invite the reader to “Watch … in happiness, in kindness.” 

Adele Kenny is the author of 23 books (poetry and nonfiction) and the recipient of various awards for her poetry, including fellowships from the NJ State Arts Council. She is a former professor of creative writing, poetry editor of Tiferet, and founding director of the Carriage House Poetry Series.

Laurie Lamon chose:

“Gifts of Love” by Yehuda Amichai

Laurie Lamon is professor of English at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington where she lives with her husband, William Siems, and their Scottish Terrier, Maude. Her two collections of poems are The Fork Without Hunger and Without Wings

Carole Stone chose:

Elizabeth Bishop’s “One Art”

Carole explains: No matter how many times I read it I am so moved by the way she builds from small losses like car keys to the large one of her lover with its poignant description —Even losing you (the joking voice, a gesture I love). Her vilanelle has been a great inspiration for mine.

Carole Stone’s book of poems American Rhapsody was published by CavanKerry Press in March, 2012. She has poems forthcoming in Exit Thirteen and Lips.