Poetry as Punishment
My mother would make me memorize a poem whenever I acted up. A professional psychologist might opine this form of punishment could instill an aversion to poetry. For me, however, it had two effects. One, an apparent inability to memorize virtually anything, and two, a sadistic drive to inflict similar pain upon others by writing my own poems. Therefore, let the reader be warned: If I did it right, and write it I did, then you will experience something. Joy, amorous thoughts, or disgust? Maybe. Will something herein cause you to cry? Hopefully. Can a poem, epigram, or short story lead your thoughts down a new path? With any luck. Go ahead, buy a copy and take it home with you. I dare you. But remember, this volume is to be read, even if just sparingly. Do not ignore the ominous rustling sound you may hear late at night emanating from your bedside table if it remains unopened.