Dozens of Civilians Die Every Day Dozens of civilians are dying to the sounds of loud sirens, houses are engulfed in flames, photos of the nearby rusty antennas. The earth groans, freed from the masses, once carrying the streams to the sea, dozens of old grimaces drowned, The Kahovka disaster is a new national grief. You fall asleep alive, the alarm cries by a siren, God save me from the rocket tonight let my leg not fall in the gangrenous. © Vyacheslav Konoval The Creaking Bench Will Receive You Hospitably The creaking bench will receive you hospitably. She is besieged by old chestnuts. You sit silently, meditating innocently, about the eternal duel between good and all-powerful evil. Some of us die at the front, and someone hiding, is stealing millions. Someone will help a little And for some, money is like those promotional coupons. The main speaker tells fables. The owner of the villa carries lies. A young man has habits of an old man. He is a pet of the system that everyone wants. Here is a tall boar walking along the beach and everyone knows him as the former owner of state property. He fled cowardly to Austrian affairs. A boar goes there and tastes ice cream for free. There are many such figures in power from the bottom to the top, and many executioners among them. A queue is formed to steal money. What kind of state will be tomorrow? If there are enough thieves in it. I take my hat off to the righteous, today. © Vyacheslav (Slava) Konoval Vyacheslav Konoval is a Ukranian poet whose work is devoted to the most pressing social problems of our time, such as poverty, ecology, relations between the people and the government and war. His poems have appeared in many magazines, including 'Anarchy Anthology Archive', 'International Poetry Anthology', 'Literary Waves Publishing', 'Sparks of Kaliopa', 'Reach of the Song 2022', 'Diogenes for Culture Journal', 'Scars of my heart from the war', 'Poetry for Ukraine', 'Rhyming', 'La page Blanche', 'Impacted', 'Military Review', 'The Lit', 'Allegro', 'Innisfree Poetry Journal', 'Antunes Galaxy Poetry', 'Ekscentrika', 'Mere Inklings', 'EgoPhobia', 'Fulcrum', 'Omnibus', 'Lothlorien Poetry Journal', 'Revisita Literaria', 'Taller Igitur', 'Tarot Poetry Journal', 'Tiny Seed Literature Journal', 'Best American Poetry Blog', 'Quilled Ink Review', 'Chronograph Poetry Journal', 'The Appalachian Journal', 'Dark Horse', 'Agape', 'Mascara Literary Journal', 'Lyrical Somerville', 'Charleston Poets', 'Briefly Zine', 'Varied Spirit', 'Taos Poetry Journal', 'The Skinny Poetry Journal', 'Academy of the Heart and Mind Journal', 'ARIEL CHART', 'International Literary Journal', 'Poesia Ultracontemporanea', 'New Ulster 124', 'Revista Cronopio', 'Gothic Nature', 'WordCityLit', 'TSaunders Pubs', 'London Grip New Poetry', 'Mill Valley Literary Review', 'Zeitglass', 'The Coin', 'Coal Literary Journal', 'Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal', 'Diamonds in the Rough Magazine', 'Spy Community Media', 'Delmarva Review', 'Synchronized Chaos Journal', 'The Horror Zine Journal', 'The Bosphorus Review', 'The Cloud Poetry', 'Redbrick', 'Cacti Fur'. Vyacheslav's poems have been translated into Spanish, French, Scottish, Italian and Polish languages. His poems also have been read at meetings of various other poetry groups, including Newman Poetry Group, Never Talk Innocence, Voicing Art Poetry Reading for Ukraine, Worcester County Poetry, Brussels Writer's Circle, Poets Anonymous May Middle-Met, Brett Show by Andrea, The Manx Bard group, Allinghman Art Festival, Versopolis Poetry Expo 2023 Poetry Readings, Poetry of Struggle, Solidarity, Poetic Voices, Coal Literary Journal's Eve, Presentation at Albert van Abbehuis Fling, and International Human Rights Art Festival. Vyacheslav's poems were presented at War Art Project. He is a member of the Federation of Scottish Writers.

For this year, my interviews for ILA Magazine I'll concentrate on bringing editors to you. We will learn about new submission opportunities as well as hear best practices about the submission process. First up for 2024, is my dear friend, Mysti Milwee, editor of Sequoyah Cherokee Journal. Here is the link for submissions and she does nominate for the Pushcart awards: https://sequoyahcherokeeriverjournal.wordpress.com/ Carl: Good morning, Mysti, we are honored at ILA Magazine to spend some time with you today and appreciate your time with us. CARL: What motivated you to pursue a role as an editor for a literary journal? ** MYSTI: The literary world is a challenge in itself, in the world today. Often, we see poets and writers being accepted and rejected during challenging times in a world where mental health is the biggest issue for writers and poets alone. My motivation to pursue being an editor came during the COVID pandemic, I wanted to become a vision and inspiration to keep other writers, artists, poets, creatives, etc., out of the depression and fog due to so much sickness the world was and is still enduring, and yet alone the ones being abused during this time as well. Being an empath, my heart felt like I should do something to help others and give back at the same time. By doing this, I hope to make a difference in society as a whole. Hoping and praying that if I could make a difference in someone's life, I felt that this challenge would open doors to those suffering, giving them space that keeps writers, artists, poets, etc., happy in a beautiful and uplifting setting, and in response to help make a difference in someone's life. CARL: How do you approach the editing process for literary pieces? Can you walk us through your typical editing workflow? ** MYSTI: During the editing process I approach each piece delicately. My vision for the journal acts as a story from beginning to end. So, each piece has its own unique voice, and is placed accordingly to the vision and voice of each piece at the same time, replicating a different perspective of beauty and flow of words and art, as the workflow generates the story. Each piece of work, in my mind (visually and written form) is projected through my synesthesia method, which makes the journal unique in its own setting. So that when you read through the issue, it is brought to life through and with form and shape. CARL: What criteria do you use to evaluate and select pieces for inclusion in the journal? ** MYSTI: First of all, adhering to the submission guidelines is my number one way of evaluating and selecting pieces for inclusion in the journal. I look at it from a professional standpoint, and knowing that my writers take their submission(s) seriously. Secondly, I evaluate by those who adhere to the vision of the journal. Overall, I also look for how a writer projects themselves within the email as well. CARL: In your opinion, what makes a literary work stand out and deserving of publication? ** MYSTI: In my opinion, the overall vision and how each work adheres to the journal's vision and voice within, makes a literary work stand out. If it does not flow, it throws it off, and shows irregularities within the workflow, and the story becomes broken. Stand out pieces projects the vision and overall atmosphere of the journal. The voice and tone make a literary work stand out, and then how it fits into the story and/or workflow. When I see a standout piece adhering to the vision of the journal, I know that it deserves a special place within the story, therefore I accept the piece for publication. CARL: What mistakes do you see in the submission process that would cause you to reject work you might have published? ** MYSTI: Not adhering to the vision and voice of the journal is the biggest mistake when seeking publication in a journal or magazine. For example: If a Dog magazine is wanting to be captivated by beautiful stories, poetry or photos of dogs, you don't send your cat's photo to the magazine. Another common mistake would be not following the guidelines. CARL: Can you discuss any ideas you have for expanding the reach and impact of your literary journal? ** MYSTI: This year, I hope to expand through other international literary platforms and add ads of the journal covers with the submission email and specs, so that anyone can send their work any time of the year. Other ideas are to approach through ads in the Global Literacy Foundation, that makes over 10,000 literary journals and magazines worldwide. Right now, Sequoyah Cherokee River Journal is reaching over 800,000 people worldwide since I've started my journal on April 1, 2020. Its impact has reached more than I thought it would, and I'm grateful to have honored and published all writers, poets, and artists in my journal on a global platform. CARL: Thank you, Mysti, and to you, our ILA readers, please consider submitting to this growing and incredibly special editor and publication. Mysti Bio: Mysti S. Milwee is an international award-winning and published multidisciplinary artist, synesthesia artist, poet, writer, translator and screenwriter. She serves as an International Art Ambassador, a leader in the arts. Her poetry and art have been published in over 25 countries and over 12,000 publications globally. Her poetry, literature and art have also been used for academic and ministry studies across the globe. She serves as the "Poet Laureate" of Fire Eagle Ministries. She is the editor-in-chief and publisher of her journal, 'Sequoyah Cherokee River Journal'. She resides in Southside, Alabama in the USA. She is a member of the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors; International Society of Filmmakers & Screenwriters; National Director at Large Forensic Art Therapy and is the Vice President of the Worldwide Art and Writers Literacy Department for Intellectual Property. Her poetry and art have appeared in numerous magazines, brochures, journals, TV shows, newspapers, blog talk radio shows and many other media outlets across the globe. About the Interviewer: Carl Scharwath is from the sunshine state of Florida. He is a Co-Editor/Interviewer of ILA Magazine, Art Editor of Glitterti and former editor of Minute Magazine. His work has appeared globally with 175+ journals selecting both his writing or art. He has published three poetry books and his latest book, "Ebb Tide Reflections", features short stories, photography and poetry (World Inkers, NYC). Carl has published four photography books by Praxis and CreatiVingenuitiy. He has been nominated for three 'The Best of the Net Awards' (2021-2023) and two different Pushcart Nominations in 202, for poetry and short story.

Featuring eight poems written by Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi The water did not betray you Luck was a hole in it Go down to the river and make the cup your paw Hide your nostalgia from those who led you to the air And they shall not step Written in the ink of the heart They became full of you until you made them a city You are lost in it And the longing is high Stuck on memory lol You hurt them The stubbornness of Taniba And when you are gone, there is no weakness or carelessness After the surgery You bit the end You are the glue on a delayed dream And now you can't believe and lie... © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi Your tears are moving me and the poems are scattered like olive seeds I'm trying to touch her with my heart pockets Thus I become a farmer Just like my father and grandpa And the picker of the village I've always been practicing poetry But my years have been reckless On yesterday Just on yesterday I've been practicing on love and suddenly it's picking season. © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi New born my hope My pain is old The days have been trapped in many pictures I am starving and displaced And also lovers of their simplicity Technology broke them apart New born throw down As for my superiority, it is old. Trying not to pass it on to anyone but me And one after me The new born is my joy As for my old age Because the children that fell On the swings of the world...They grow up And they put the world on a swing © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi Apple on the cheeks or something Lola is confused My hair flew like an eagle And he caught what he caught From a colorful world Suitable for your name, whatever the wills, liking is a command The abode of your shadow has added a language to the world. Speak silently to speak... Once again Replace love with the intensity of passion And the river is old enough to describe the stream And I will not riddle you in your eyes U hide a lot And stuffing each other up I have two regrets And now you are coming Did you add an ice cold heart Did you cross my limits...Then my memory And he will be satisfied And you won't waste your apology I don't know myself for a lifetime UNTIL I LIVE Who deserves to live © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi In an area of you She is bounded by a severe anxiety attack A butterfly dancing And a raven is in a chokehold And others run away to sell out In an area of you Joy is divided and sorrows are challenged And many souls will fall In the form of bombs In an area of you Dawn breaks without eyes His hands are stained with your pencil And his mouth is stained with your blood. Wonder is it the end of the world Or your beginning in another world A world of long nails... © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi Death is like asphalt, it breaks the road And you gotta walk check for a shine Are your eyes around from a pile? Or a banner of peace raised by a friend And your strings of music postpones her dancing How painful it is to step from narrow to narrow The gunpowder of the free silenced their angels And the sorcerer is a demon on the loose Bandage hair wounds without saving Childhood ideas are cursed like tenderness Let the truth be spoken in grief About the rain of words amidst the fire Death is like asphalt without its blackness And the end of the tornado...Captain is sinking © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi hold me in a sigh and a sigh And wear the dream Cute as a spark Deepen the lamentation I don't want no noise Rather a mixture of dew and nectar I am so sorry If I ever just made a disappearance I needed a to sink Two years ago I haven't lived Where is my age to see You see I lost my way In the seasons of life Did I live my death And then I am...And you touched my veins © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi You crave my blood and quantity So relieve your absence from the heartlessness And I accept that my time is no longer delicious And my life is on my behalf The shadow of your eyes is haunting me And I'm drowned in you And I stay, not my ground above my ground As if clones abound in me I am away, I want you close He gives strength to those who want it. © Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi Haitham Abdullah Al-Akrumi is a Lebanese poet residing in the Gulf. He was born in Jamal Akrum, northern Lebanon. He wrote poetry at an early age and practiced teaching Arabic before traveling. He has a poetry collection that was printed twice and published since 1998, and a collection of poems that was printed but not published. He currently has more than one collection in print. His poems have been published in many newspapers and magazines and he has participated in many cultural events in clubs, literary centers and universities, he held many evenings, both alone and with other participants. He has won many honors. He won second place in a cultural competition held on the occasion of the Saudi National Day, and third place in a cultural competition for the Literary Club in the northern Saudi region.

Poetry Night Chief Poet:  गीत चतुर्वेदी (मुम्बई (Geet) Chaturvedi (Mumbai) Translator: Bipin Tiwari Address: Sikkim, India. Every year one night use to come like this When one poem from the pages of book exit and becomes a firefly to roam in the jungle When solar eclipse come into play for a tangible validity Moon gets angry and hide into bushes Again the firefly returns from jungle to light for those who are afraid of darkness. Translator:  बिपिन तिवारी Bipin Tiwari bipintiwari655@gmail.com सिक्किम भारत

A HALF DOZEN POEMS PLUS ONE MORE: Featuring the poetry of Mr. Kenneth Maswabi Who cursed the night? Ignorance is a far deeper wound than sadness In its most intense form, it's infested with disgusting malicious forms of stupidity Throughout history, ignorance has caused so much strife in the house of humanity It's a vicious form of selfishness and recklessness A malady that can cause even the most beautiful soul to engage in some of the most despicable acts Ignorance is not just the lack of knowledge Ignorance affects both the academically inclined and the illiterate in equal measures It's the inability to see through the veil of illusions An incapacitated state where the affected individual is turned into a viper that bites those who are deemed enemies Regardless of the bright colors of their good intentions Ignorance (not wickedness) is the cause of atrocities and genocide the world over The sharp edge of ignorance is more dangerous than all nuclear weapons combined More ferocious than the worst nightmare ever experienced Ignorance is the number one enemy of humanity It has the ability and capacity to destroy the world It's through ignorance that brothers are turned into blood thirsty beasts and turn against each other It's through ignorance that tribalism, racism, nationalism, terrorism and other forms of beliefs are made to fester and grow Ignorance is the number one cause of poverty, motor vehicle accidents and gun violence Ignorance is the source of fear, uncertainty and hopelessness If humanity could see through the veil of ignorance And embrace the Truth The world would be a far better place No one will fight over philosophies and ideas No one will die of thirst, hunger and malnutrition No war will be fought inside the house of humanity Who cursed the night? No one. This is an example of an ancient culture of ignorance Night time has always been filled with suspicion and fear But it's a beautiful time of the day, when Silence is embraced and dreams are realized Now, be aware of your unawareness And you will be healed of your ignorance © Kenneth Maswabi Sadness, Sorrow and Despair Late at night When everyone has closed their eyes Her eyes are wide open, unable to blink Her mind is an open casket of the most intense sorrow She has lost all her identities, achievements, possessions and warmth Like a dying fire, she is surrounded by darkness She is as cold as the tomb stones Where her children are buried The thought of her beloved children wrapped in a shroud of death sent excruciating pain deep into her soul Her life story torn to pieces It all happened when everyone was looking All her dreams erased from the blackboard of life Her life's spark extinguished Her tears are left lifeless on her cheeks Sadness, sorrow and despair have come to her home uninvited Only the sound of her grief fills the dark night sky The rest of the world sleeps undisturbed. Dedicated to the many mothers who are victims of Wars. © Kenneth Maswabi The Wiseman from Africa In many stories, you never hear of this man or woman He is subdued and oftentimes neglected He has no hordes of photographers to follow him Like a burning tree, he will perish with his secrets His seeds will be obliterated by the fire of obscurity There is something interesting about wisdom It never chooses a certain place or location Its nest is already present in all of us But there are certain conditions that need to prevail Before the mystery of wisdom can start to lay its sacred eggs The Wiseman from Africa is one of those poems Where the mystery is folded in an enigma To break it open, you don't need hands You need spiritual eyes to see the latch on its forehead There are no words inscribed on it though It's the prescription of Silence that gives it away The Wiseman from Africa has found the portal of mysteries No other academic description can describe his new found state of awareness It's not born out of the open canvas of the African wilderness Or distilled from the natural African herbs It is the most abundant phenomenon in all of the Universe That pervades his body, mind and soul conquering every one of his senses Silence is the key to this enigma It has no explanation or root cause It's not a disease or birthmark Silence is the garment that opens every avenue of wisdom And the Wiseman of Africa has found its nest Usually, it builds its nest in Eastern philosophies Or in Ancient Greek mythologies But this time, it did not want an old sacred bowl Or a piece of ancient wood It settled for a common log, where it ignited its sacred fire Like a Phoenix, it has to rise out of its own ashes And occupy the fabric of existence Silence, Wisdom and Africa are not usually mentioned in one template But the dawn of enlightenment began in Africa It is an ancient place, full of mysteries, most of them hidden under the sand dunes of the Kalahari and Sahara deserts Some of them swallowed by the passing of time The Wiseman from Africa is not a pure coincidence or a political masquerade It is a taste of all things possible, a real journey of life To all of humanity, God gives gifts, but it is the neglected gift that holds the key to mankind's spiritual awakening Listen to the Wiseman of Africa It's a poem about nothingness, consciousness and illumination © Kenneth Maswabi When Everyone is Asleep I am disengaged from my limited human existence And enter a stateless state of consciousness A form of nothingness occupies my body, mind and soul Incapacitating my ability to think logically In this manner, I am a whole world of poetry And words are the flora and fauna of my being It's this state of madness that holds me still To receive the most beautiful gift ever manifested, the Sacred Light In this illuminated capacity, poetry is my companion And my master I obey every command and yearn for every stroke It's this enriched state of being that makes poetry a beautiful experience Poetry is like dreaming, it encapsulates me into a beautiful glow of light Opening a million ways to perceive life It is far more richer than the limited five senses of the physical world Every sweet melody is a divine encounter It is a dimensionless world where I can be everywhere and nowhere at the same time It is a dreamlike state of pure bliss When everyone is asleep Poetry knocks at the window of my heart And I am mesmerized by her glowing eyes She is my full moon and I am her darkness Together, we are the moonlit night, soothing to the soul of existence Fused and infused into the fabric of everything When everyone is , I am the dream, and poetry is my mysterious lover © Kenneth Maswabi Writing anything about anything In my head, there are no alphabets Just a bunch of neurons Communicating in a language unknown We might think its neurochemistry But no one knows the real truth The brain has no mouthpiece To tell us it's hidden secrets We can only imagine and re-imagine the environment inside the brain But the world of gray and white matter is beyond our comprehension We can only be silent servants of this mysterious organization Let's not be deluded by the wayward thoughts That find their way to our doorsteps The brain is an institution of the dark arts It does not divulge its secrets It refuses to show us its mysterious ways That's why one can carry a huge brain and yet remain clueless It is not a classroom of neurobiology It is a silent world of noisy thoughts Stuck together inside the solid walls of the faculty of reason It is very difficult to find common sense in this milieu of estranged neuronal synapses This is a poem about writing anything about anything I hope you found the gist of the story now, let me introduce you to spirituality The body, mind and soul are capsules of existence Use them with care Lest you fall for their illusions and delusions And you will forever be lost in the realm of delusions of grandeur © Kenneth Maswabi The Ocean of Silence Like a mad river I will keep on following your trail Flowing through your rail Sailing through terrifying cliffs Squeezing through uncertain terrain I will knock over boulders and pebbles Carry sediments and loads of questionable stuff And in my hurry to embrace you I will not disrespect you I will put down all my anguish Detoxify myself of all the horrors of life I will come to you in peace I won't let the slippery slopes of life delay our union I am a servant of the world But most importantly, I am a disciple of Silence I will nourish the ground on which I walk And quench the thirstiness in the wilderness of life But I will not be absorbed to the things of the world I will always find my way back to you I will never let my energies dry down I will look for the tiniest path That will take me closer to you I will let Faith, Hope and Love be my guide To stir me toward your heart Finally, I will be swallowed by your love All my being turned to nothingness I will be part of your eternal light The pulsating sensation of your unconditional Love Totally submerged in the substance of your being © Kenneth Maswabi ** When Silence is Elusive In my attempt to re-enter the sacred place I searched for my being inside the relentless unrest of this world I was looking for my naked soul inside the tumultuous sea of life It was like looking for a needle in a haystack I was drowning in the open casket of my emotional self There was no window to breathe except to suffocate inside the confusion of my mindset But I stood still inside the turmoil And it was the stillness that illuminated the path When Silence is elusive, I become a lost soul With nowhere to go but to enter the crowded room of my emotions Here, I am forced to participate in the squabbles of life The hustle and bustle of life become my garment I lose my radiant beauty and become a smog-filled field of worldly illusions Like a ghost, I become a nonentity All my sacred energies gone I become a raging river of uncertainty But there is always a way back to my true self It is inside the stillness where I am awakened And I am led by the voice of Silence into the vastness of my being Where I am resuscitated and re-infused with the sacred Light This is the journey of my soul to and fro As I try to traverse through the landscape of experiences I am a Spirit being having a human experience It is easy to lose my being inside the milieu of the constructed reality It's imperative that I don't acquire a taste for material things It's of utmost importance that I am not attached to the world of uncertainty I am more at home inside the unknown The realm of mysteries is my true home Silence is my true garment © Kenneth Maswabi Kenneth Maswabi is a former Clinical Research Physician. He studied Medicine at Melbourne University, Australia and has been practicing Medicine for 17 years now. He joined Clinical Research in 2012 and worked on multiple Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cure Research Studies. Now, he is a General Physician at Riverside Hospital, Francistown, Botswana. His interest with poetry started as a teenager but he didn't study poetry at school. His poetry is totally inspired by Silence or Stillness of mind, body and soul. He only writes when he is in this state. The state of Silence has been with him since he was born but he learnt to harness it to create poetry. He didn't write much until around 2014 when he started writing poetry on a daily basis. His interest in poetry is mostly related to the human spirit. He considers himself as a Spirit Poet and writes mostly about the Spirituality of Love, Consciousness and Humanity. Just recently published a poetry book titled 'Love, Consciousness and Humanity: The Shadowless Dreamer...The Illuminated Path of Silence.' This is a collection of spirit poems that are inspired by Silence.

January 23, 2024. R. M. Engelhardt's book, "RAW", is chock-full with an unbridled outpouring of expression. His book is a remarkable collection of poetry and as he states, "raw poems, words, opinions and emotion", leaving no stones unturned, it's an unapologetic medley of thought, driven by sentiment, and triggered by all sorts of interesting subjects so relatable. He "pulls no punches", expressing deepest conviction and opinions without restraint and with unfiltered frankness, his themes of "raw humor", brutal honesty, dismantling verses of politics and government, down to the nitty-gritty, while penning powerful language we all know too well, his realistic understanding and strong perspectives certainly breathes life onto his pages. One of Mr. Engelhardt's most distinguishing features is his insightful observations of deception and destruction in government and politics, fearlessly writing the flaws while shedding light on the "stupidity" as well as manipulative tactics employed by those in power. He confronts harsh realities of the world and as many of us feel these same issues, he left me with deep reflection. His book made me want to get up and have deep debates with my friends about the "mess and stupidity" of our politicians as he so honestly writes, like his poem, "MERRY GO ROUND", politically critiquing commercialization and greed, rising prices and money hungry corporate entities. R. M. Engelhardt writes a unique blend of raw humor and honesty, shedding light on the absurdities of his subjects while adding satirical tones making it more relatable and engaging, like his poem about "THE COMMON MAN", who writes poetry and doesn't give a "rat's ass" if you like his poetry or not...I emphatically laughed at some of his political rants, like "THE TORMENTED SOUL OF LITTLE DONNY TRUMP", (it made me think of an SNL script of little Donny). His book isn't solely a collection of rants, it's also a celebration of poetry and life. Through his inclusion of poetic elements, such as metaphor, Mr. Englehardt infuses beauty and depth into his words. The juxtaposition of "RAW" emotion with his straightforwardness of his work, creates thought-provoking experience, simply put, in my opinion, is a collection of fearless, unfiltered poetry, offering glimpses of "RAW" everything and by not holding back, he takes us on and through his journeys of unleashed emotions, channeling unvarnished perspectives, encouraging critical thinking and left me with an ability to paint vivid pictures within the mind. His poems create a visceral understanding like no other I've ever read, totally immersed, the absence of cliche, adds to his authenticity, "RAW" is an absorbing read for anyone seeking an unapologetic musing of human experience and this chaotic world we live in. R. M. Englehardt's book, "RAW" would make a great gift for that special person in your life who enjoys reading poetry. For your friends and others who may be interested, all of his books can be found on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Original date reviewed by Aurora Soleil content editor/reviewer December 17, 2023. R. M. Engelhardt is a poet, writer and author whose work over the last 30 years has been published in such journals as Thunder Sandwich, Full of Crow, Rusty Truck, Writers' Resist, Dry Land Lit, Rye Whiskey Review, Hobo Camp Review and many others. He currently lives and writes in Upstate NY and his new books of poetry are entitled "Darklands" (Published by Whiskey City Press, 2019) and "We Rise Like Smoke Poems Psalms & Incantations" (Published by Dead Man's Press Ink, 2021). His new book of poems is entitled "RAW Poems By R. M. Engelhardt 2023" You can read more about the author at Dead Man's Press Ink and more of his writing on his Dead Mans Press Ink Facebook Page.

Featuring the work of Mr. Steve Lyman, ILA Magazine's contributing editor. Captain Badass There's death in store, Finally silence that song Need to kill that mockingbird, That's seduced me for so long... Why!! Should I accept this?? I simply need to survive, Only one of us will stay alive... Because of this desire, To finally break free... Show the burning fire, That's bestowed within me... How!! Will I do it?? Let's drown the mockingbird, I will do it here at sea This Badass Captain, Is gonna do the deed, And then all will see This is my Ship, My Space, I am the leader in this Place, This Ship belongs to me... Who am I?? You may ask of me Captain Badass, The master of the sea... I've been trapped, I've been seduced, By the mockingbird's song But now I have killed it, And I've come back strong Without any more seduction, Nothing else will go wrong And now, yes now!! You will all finally see This is my Ship, This is my Voyage I am Captain Badass, Master of all in front of Me My ship is still afloat, As all you shipmates can see Death to the mockingbird, That tried to rule seductively You're food for the shark, At the bottom of the sea... I am Captain Badass, You take your orders from me... Captain Badass, The master of every sea... © Steve A. Lyman This is a take on a well known song by Frank Sinatra, 'My Way', only in a more satirical version... "Your Way to My Way" And now, the end is near, I've finished my rehabilitation. The reason, I was put here, constant abuse, of my medication. I've been through detox now, the counseling, is improving my day And the courts, leave me alone, If I do it, Your Way... Regrets, Oh I've had a few, and alcohol, didn't make it easier. Sometimes, I didn't have a clue, what happened next, Total Amnesia. I got myself messed up, totally pissed, for most of the day. So the courts, they ordered me, to do it Their Way... Now there were times, I didn't agree. When sent somewhere, I didn't want to be. And through it all, I would scream and shout. Have a hissy fit, spit my dummy out. But no more the fool, now I stand tall. Cos I did it, Your Way... Yes, I stand tall, and I've done it all Proud to now live, My Way... Yes, I stand tall, cos I've done it all... I'm proud to live, My Way... © Steve A. Lyman "Hurting Deep Inside" Hurting deep inside, I'm feeling haunted by the past. All the history I have made, will become something ahead of me. Carrying me back to where I have been before, my memories carry no mystery. Painfully I will relive them again, is this how it's meant to be. They say the future is not ours to see, but believe me it is. Sometimes it's looking back at the past that is in your mind. Yeah, there were many a good time spent, many beautiful pictures in view, but it's not always that simple. When life has dealt you so much shit, why would you want to face it all again. It hurt you so much the first time around, don't you think that was traumatic enough. Ever since I have tried to pull away, move onwards to pastures new. But this doesn't happen now, not like it should, anyway. I've reached this pivotal point in my life, the point where I can no longer control it. My brain has taken control, it now decides where I go, what lies ahead of me. This may sound like I'm giving up, and you will say... Love, Care, or Inspiration will guide me away from this. That's what I thought until now, until I realized I have to accept what I am dealt. You see, once again I have more brain issues, need more surgery. Yes, they can remove the tumor, and the shunt will keep things at bay. But realistically, the speed of Alzheimer's taking hold of me, well, that cannot be reversed. So backwards to my past is something that lies ahead of me. You could say the future ahead, I guess I already see. And that is what will definitely be, the hurting deep inside of me... © Steve A. Lyman "Deceived" Every look and I was full of desire When you smile my heart is on fire Whenever you spoke I did believe But every smile and word - was just deceive Someone else would soon work it out Another man would just scream and shout But I just calmly figured it out And now I no longer hang about Nor will I hope for what was before No man could ever give you more Let not this last chat be in vain Pack up and go never deceive me again All thoughts keep going through my mind Perhaps someday a new love I'll find But until I reach that perfect day No one will ever deceive me this way... © Steve A. Lyman "Destiny Arrives..." That first look and I was taken in When we talked I felt something within Before long, it was obvious we should be together Have met the one I've been looking for Has fate just arrived at my heart's door I wasn't expecting this today But I feel a connection in some sort of way I asked if we could meet up again sometime All the days that passed in-between I dreamt that you were gonna be mine Has fate finally come to me Is this something that is my destiny A picture of the future is clear and visionary When I close my eyes it's your beauty I see Longing for your tender touch Something I have missed for so long Those butterflies inside me flutter This must be love I feel it so strong For I only felt this from you, alone I count the hours that I am at home Praying that you feel the same way too I get prepared to meet up again with you If this is not my future destiny Then you will not be there and it's not meant to be But as I walk into the coffee bar My heart skipped a beat as there you are This vision of beauty I once again see You have turned up so this must be The arrival of what is my destiny... © Steve A. Lyman "The Vision of Harmony" I am mesmerized by the world of today Media showing disasters and war everyday The beauty of the earth is going astray As the greed of mankind is taking it away It's time to take care of what we have been given The nature of our planet was made for living The beginning to look a horrid state We must stop this destruction for everyone's sake Who knows how long we have left But the time we do have we must do our best Try and live together in harmony Build a better generation through Unity It's a future for our children we must visually see That's the only way to save humanity Let's negotiate around the tables, not fight Tell the politicians it's our desire to get it right No more rockets and bombs throughout the night Just rebuilding together for a future that's bright Can we honestly stare at someone in the eye And feel nothing except you're going to die What type of world do you want to see For me, it's the beauty of love and harmony... © Steve A. Lyman "One More Thing Today" That was a pretty good day - as far as days go But of course - as days go - it just went Gone - Never to be seen again - never to return As is the transient nature of all experience What achievement has come from today It makes me think - Causes me to dwell Have I done enough - Made a difference in any way Well I did ring a friend - that's something But probably - I should have done it long before now I helped that old lady pack her shopping - Something I should do without a second thought I wonder - Is there anything else I could have done perhaps - I should have said 'good evening' - to that person just passing by It wouldn't have hurt - to just give a smile Capture their eyes - Just to acknowledge they are there After all - They may be having similar thoughts But - Does it even matter if they don't In today's society - We just don't make the time - Too busy rushing around No time for pleasantries - Not today So yes - I could have done more Absolutely - without a doubt But of course - I still have a little time left today I know - I will pray for all those people The ones - I have totally ignored today - Yes - I can still do something else - In my small way © Steve A. Lyman "Words Don't Always Come Easy..." Words don't always come easy, although they are constant in the mind. It's just a case of realization, maybe in rhythm or rhyme. Bleeding our ink strategically, unifying themes in a line. The brain makes its interaction, of where they should be aligned. The outcome could come out perfectly, we get it right first time. But more than not, it needs editing, that's normally what I find. Because words don't always come easy, from the start to the bottom line. © Steve A. Lyman "Face Exposure of Unity..." With a mind clearly clouded by the sky A face like the rock mountains high Cheeks like the sandy desert so dry A chin chiseled carefully feeding the supply But there are two visions upon this face The other angle is as beautiful as a terrace Those rosebud lips hold a voluptuous space A prominent nose perfectly in its place Take notice to the artistic mystery Believing it's your choice to be free Mountains or clouds won't stop visionary When all joined together blended in Unity... © Steve A. Lyman "Easy on the Workout" Slow me down, My mind is ticking, Adrenaline pumping, Blood pressure high, Heart is thumping, Thoughts keep jumping, Slow it down... Take a break, Relaxation, Got to be taken, This motivation, If I'm not mistaken, Causing dehydration, In this situation, Take a break... Start again, Slow building, Uplifting, Body shifting, Muscle burning, Calories going, Face glowing, Timer showing, I am slowing, But keep going, Reach the top, A personal best, Time to stop... Time to rest, Passed my test. And now, relax, Take a breath, Time has come, Nothing left, Workout done... © Steve A. Lyman "Alone With Trauma" When he walks alone, Those moments of despair... No one noticed him, Did anyone even care As he travels along, Heading for nowhere Mumbles to his self, No conversation to share... He doesn't harm anyone, Doesn't beg, doesn't call... Because nobody would listen, They just think he's that fool Who stumbles up steps Leaning against every wall In fact, he is nothing in their eyes A nobody, he means nothing at all... But this is a young man, who is caught up in himself Life's dealt him a bad hand, No money, no wealth... Just left by the wayside, Kicked off every shelf And all because he is suffering, From severe mental health... They don't know his past, Do they even care They would if they knew him, Fought with him out there... If the moments of trauma, They also had to share Then perhaps they would like him Have some kindness to spare... But this a young man, Who suffers trauma and despair © Steve A. Lyman "Confidence" Confidence is low Nowhere to go Life has no flow Have lost my mojo But I just carry on Pushing myself along When things go wrong I must remain strong It's just this situation Stuck in stagnation Require some motivation Looking for inspiration Yet life still remains Pressure contains Reel in the reigns Look for the gains © Steve A. Lyman "Warriors Don't Hide" Hurting is surely the most painful part When you're nursing fragments of a broken heart But just keep looking forward and don't fall apart Lift yourself up and give the day a kickstart You have a bright future there up ahead So just try getting your sorry ass out of bed So much to do and things to be said Clear that dark space contained within your head Help to make your day completely turnaround Pick yourself up from that magnetic ground Put on some loud music and dance around Powerfully drown out all that negative sound Then you can really start to enjoy your day Just let your inner happiness come out to play You'll feel a whole lot better if I might say And your beautiful smile will come back to stay I know it's easier said than done And I know you're not in the mood for fun But come alive and get things won And then start connecting with everyone Because you are a lot stronger than you think You can override all these things that stink You have people who love you right by your side You're a warrior for sure and need never to hide... © Steve A. Lyman "The Beauty of a Rose" From the moment I saw her, Just a short distance away She had captured me for certain Right from that very day Her vision within a picture frame, I will never ever forget. Through this blooming arch of roses, Came forth, her shapely silhouette. Oh so elegantly she glided, As she walked slowly on by. Flicking her long auburn hair, Revealing eyes as blue as a cloudless sky. Her rosebud lips turned into a smile That flutter of her eyelashes The warmth felt from her magical flow, Turning all men into ashes Except for me, as her magnetism Set my heart on fire She had already chosen me, Having guessed my true desire A servant I am for her every need, There's nothing I would oppose, As forever I have been captured, By the Beauty of a Rose... © Steve A. Lyman Steve Lyman lives in the Kettering area of the UK. Brought up in Northampton, he was educated at a normal high school, where he left with various qualifications, but decided to join the Armed Forces, instead. Writing and Poetry came about during the Covid Lockdown. Looking for something different, he decided he would join a Poetry group. It didn't take long to get hooked, and he helped create a group that played a big part in his life...with the mentorship of the group creator, he suddenly found himself doing creative writing as well as many different types of poetry...rhythm and rhyme, shaping and lines and before he knew it, he was creating many styles of poetry. Now he has a couple of his own groups where he airs his vision of Unity, Equality and Happiness, one group that stands up for Action Against Abuse of any kind. He is also an admin for several other groups. He has achieved lots of things during the past few years. He's been featured in 7 different anthologies, has written for a couple of magazines and also proud to be a compiler, and main author in "Seasons For All Nations", having mentored many of the co-authors. Today, he continues to stand up for Unity, Humanity and Abuse of any nature...Being appointed the UK Ambassador for New Leaf, but his most recent appointment as an Editorial Contributor with ILA Magazine, has taken him to another level, and the support he has received during his recent sickness, has been an inspiration to continue his writing...This is just another Chapter in his life with many more to follow.

Conducted by ILA Contributing Guest Editor/Interviewer, Irma Kurti Elizabeth Esguerra Castillo is a multi-awarded International Author/Poet/Visual Artist from the Philippines. She is the author of "Seasons of Emotions" (UK) and "Inner Reflections of the Muse" (USA) and a co-author to more than 200 international anthologies in the USA, Canada, UK, India, Africa, Poland, China, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Argentina, Ecuador, France, and Belgium among others. Elizabeth's works were already translated into 13 languages. She is a Global Peace Poet, Ambassador of Peace and Goodwill to the Philippines of Naciones delas Letras Uniletras & Semillas de Juventud Siglo XXI based in Argentina, Cultural Ambassador to the Philippines of Inner Child Press International, President of CIESART (Camera Internacional de Escritores y Artistas) Filipinas among others as well as affiliated with different international magazines and newspapers. She holds a Doctor Honoris Causa from the International Academy of Literature and the Arts based in Ukraine and also a Doctor of Literature. Elizabeth's artworks have already graced many local and international art exhibitions. She is the Owner and CEO of Art Heals by Elizabeth Esguerra Castillo which has already collaborated with different art galleries worldwide. IRMA KURTI: You are a poet and a visual artist. Which of these passions was born first? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: Since I was a kid, about the tender age of 7 years old, I already knew that I would become a wordsmith. After I discovered that I could draw and was also inclined to the arts at a young age, I also dreamed of becoming a painter. For me, one's Higher Calling will be there for you to discover at the designated right time, no matter what is your age. IRMA KURTI: Is there anything that connects literature and art? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: I strongly believe that Literature and Art are interconnected. As I stated before in a previous Author interview in a magazine, Literature itself is a form of Art for the writer or poet communicating and expressing his/her ideas as well as his/her experiences to readers or audiences. With this being said, the story told in a literary piece or composition also connects to each reader, affecting them in one way or the other in the same way that paintings or any art piece does. IRMA KURTI: Which is for you, the best natural way of expressing yourself? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: For me, the best way of expressing myself is through writing. It is through weaving words that one's suppressed emotions can resurface. With Art, would be complicated enough, leaving your audience confused as to what is the real interpretation of your work. Using written words, writers can easily capture and get their message across with their readers. IRMA KURTI: You collaborate with a lot of magazines and journals online. Can you tell us something more about your experience? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: My first break in writing was as a News Correspondent for our community newspaper here in the Philippines "Antipolo STAR" in 2006 after which, I became a Feature Writer for a corporate magazine "Highlights" in 2007. In 2009, I started joining international anthologies after I became active in various Facebook Poetry Groups. And it is through my connections online and with publishers that I got to be affiliated with several international magazines and newspapers and literary platforms. I am the appointed President, Editor, Ambassador for the Philippines for PLOTS-Creatives Magazine based in New York, USA. P.L.O.T.S is the acronym for Poetry Language of the Soul. We mainly help promote Creatives and provide a platform for them to showcase their talents and skills. You can visit our website at Plots Creatives Magazine. Glitterati Quill with a Spark is based in India also appointed me as an Executive Editor. We publish poetry, articles, artworks, etc. You can visit their link at: Glitterati Quill With a Spark I am also an Art Direction Editor for the Oceania Section of Humanity Magazine based in Russia. I write art articles and do Artist Interview Features of International Artists. The Daily Global Newspaper, Independent Newspaper based in Dhaka, Bangladesh appointed me as their Ambassador/Representative for the Philippines. There are other magazines I am also connected with. Having associated with these international magazines and newspapers, I was able to get more international connections and build my global presence not just through Social Media visibility. I got to learn a lot and that gave me immense opportunities to explore more things and to try getting out of my comfort zone. IRMA KURTI: Your first book, "Seasons of Emotions" was published in the UK by Destiny To Write Publishing. What inspired you to write it? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: My first book, "Seasons of Emotions" was published in 2013 in the UK and was actually my prize for winning an International Poetry Competition in the UK - free book publication. It is a very special book as it is a dream come true to me to be able to publish my book internationally and to find a home to my compositions as well as the old love poems of my late Dad for our Mom. I dedicated my first international poetry book to my late Dad and the contents depict the varied emotions of the muse through the different phases of seasons. My second book "Inner Reflections of the Muse" was published in 2014 by Inner Child Press International based in the USA. My publisher approached me and asked if I would agree to get published by them as compensation for the articles, I was writing for Inner Child Magazine USA before. My book contains my old blog posts about love, life, and relationships, some poetry collaborations with fellow international poets, my own quote compositions, etc. IRMA KURTI: Since your first publication "Seasons of Emotions" until the last one, "Inner Reflections of the Muse", has everything changed in your style of writing? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: I believe that my writing has evolved through the years. It has more depth and meaning and the themes also center not just on Universal Love but on Social Issues and other things plaguing the world. A poet and writer becomes more globally-conscious as times go by and he/she becomes more aware about the surroundings and the world he lives in. IRMA KURTI: What is the thematic of your poetries? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: When I first started composing poetry, the themes centered mostly on love and relationships. As years passed by, my pieces became more in depth and evocative which now centers on mysticism and social issues. I would like to believe that my writing style is likened to that of the "Stream of Consciousness" of James Joyce wherein the readers can "see" themselves or can remarkably relate to the character depicted in my poem. IRMA KURTI: What are some challenges that you have faced in your literary path? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: Like any other authors or artists there, the path of both my writing and art journey is not always paved with roses. There were some hindrances and barriers along the way, but I do believe that these have molded me into what I have become now. I experienced racial discrimination because I was an Asian and new when I was just starting as an International Poet in one Poetry Contest in the UK when some negative things were thrown at me because they were threatened, I would win. But I did win eventually in the end. I was also cheated in an online voting again in the UK where I was supposed to be the Author of the Year but lost it to another contestant. There were other challenges that came my way but I believe that I had to experience these things so I will become stronger and successful in my literary career. I just remind myself that I do not compete with others. I compete with myself. I remain steadfast in fulfilling my Higher Calling with utmost passion and dedication. IRMA KURTI: Do you think that writing has the power to change our lives? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: Yes, I strongly believe that writing has the power to change our lives. Words can either make or break a person. They can turn one's life around for the better or for the worst. Writers have this sacred mission of being stalwarts of change in the world. We have this obligation to tell the truth no matter how it hurts, to be transparent, and to bring in positive impact to the world. IRMA KURTI: Do you think that Poetry and Art may also contribute to promote peace in the world? ** ELIZABETH ESGUERRA CASTILLO: Yes, I do also believe that both Poetry and Art can promote peace in the world. Poetry is connected to aesthetics, to anything beautiful in the world. It helps us depict the world and all its glory amid the madness and chaos around. In poetry, we can express our innermost emotions thus we can help promote World Peace through our verses. Verses that can help transform a society or to be the catalyst of change in the world. Art on the other hand, allows individuals to find a space or outlet to entertain their negative emotions and escape from destructive conflict thus providing a "canvas" where they can express their suppressed feelings, emotions, and hope for the future. Art for peace can affect how people perceive unity and harmony through the different hues and brushstrokes. IRMA KURTI is an Albanian poet, writer, lyricist, journalist and translator and has been writing since she was a child. She is a naturalized Italian and lives in Bergamo, Italy. All her books are dedicated to the memory of her beloved parents, Hasan Kurti and Sherife Mezini, who have supported and encouraged every step of her literary path. Kurti has also won numerous literary prizes and awards in Italy and Italian Switzerland. She was awarded the Universum Donna International Prize IX Edition 2013 for Literature and received a lifetime nomination as an Ambassador of Peace by the University of Peace, Italian Switzerland. In 2020, she became the honorary president of WikiPoesia, the encyclopedia of poetry. In 2021, she was awarded the title of Liria (Freedom) by the Italian-Albanian community in Italy. In 2022, she was also nominated as the Albanian ambassador to the International Academic Award of Contemporary Literature Seneca of the Academy of Philosophical Arts and Sciences, Bari. She also won the prestigious 2023 Naji Naaman's Literary Prize for complete work. Irma Kurti has published 28 books in Albanian, 24 in Italian, 15 in English, and two in French. She has written approximately 150 lyrics for adults and children. She has also translated 17 books by different authors, and all of her own books into Italian and English. Her books have been translated and published in 14 countries. Irma has recently joined ILA Magazine as a Contributing Guest Editor and will exclusively publish world interviews.

January 22, 2024 Editor's Review of a collaborative poem between Somdatta Mitra of India and S. T. Goodhead of Nigeria Title: "Let's Endeavor to Paint a Beautiful World" This is our world, made for tranquility and bliss, Gasping in the euphoria of ecstasy, Wonderment blew me off like a breeze. This is the world we prayed for, both land and sea, Let's dwell in the mountains, for freedom is there. We would paint the sky with colorful smiles. © S. T. Goodhead Emotions gallop for each and every state of life, Even in mourning, painting hope and optimism to stand upright. Comforting the bereaved family and entwining in bliss, Love with affection and colorful vibes In valleys of solitude, And in forests, the muffled voices allure. © Somdatta Mitra May each smile be a lifter of hope to the hopeless. Many are faced with thoughts of depression. If we can be slightly careful, considerate and loving The weak, poor and bereaved souls would find solace In a world where might makes right, we can make right a might. © S. T. Goodhead In the gardens as the fountains paint the splendid sights, Let us paint the exuberance of the deprived eyes. Cradling those who lost parents in wars, Embracing those who need comfort. Let the kites of freedom roar for an apricity Let the bosom of those nulliparous mothers Wrap the orphans and sing lullabies. © Somdatta Mitra Beautifying the world's walls With butterflies of true love Enduring patience oozing with care Let us be there for those who're held bound by despair. © S. T. Goodhead With a Beau Geste and a divine sensitivity blithely, Let's arise, awake and revive lost moments benignly. Qualms over demure must consent to a metanoia, Instilling new enthusiasm to an empyreal radiance. Turning asunder those dern perspectives, Let's parade toward an aphonic euphoria for an epoch of benevolence. © Somdatta Mitra © S. T. Goodhead © Somdatta Mitra Review: I find this collaborative poem between Somdatta Mitra and S. T. Goodhead, to be a beautiful expression of the shared desire to paint a more beautiful world. The opening lines capture a sense of wonder and tranquility, setting the stage for what is to come. The use of imagery, such as painting the sky with colorful smiles, adds a vivid and uplifting touch to the poem. The inclusion of emotion and empathy in their poem is also notable. It acknowledges the various stages of life, including mourning, and encourages readers to find hope and optimism even in difficult times. The idea of comforting the bereaved and spreading love and affection is a powerful message of support and compassion. Their poem also addresses societal issues, such as depression and suffrage of the weak and poor. It reminds us that we have the power to make a positive difference in the lives of those who are struggling. The plea for kindness, consideration and love is a call to action that urges us to create a world where might does not make right, but where compassion and empathy prevail. There is a consistent use of vivid imagery throughout the poem, such as the gardens painting splendid sights or the "kites of freedom" roaring for apricity. These metaphors enhance the reader's experience, creating a strong visual impact. The collaboration between the two poets is evident in the seamless flow of the verses and the shared themes of hope, kindness and beauty. By and large, this collaborative poem successfully conveys the shared vision of painting a more beautiful world through compassionate actions and spreading love. The combination of powerful imagery, emotional depth, and societal commentary adds layers of meaning and resonates with readers. It is an inspirational and though-provoking piece of poetry. NOTE: I find writing a collaborative poem to be both challenging and rewarding. It requires a high level of communication and understanding between the writers to create a cohesive piece. Each poet brings their own unique style, perspective and voice to the table, which can sometimes clash or overlap. Finding a balance between the two can be a delicate process, but it also opens up opportunities for creative synergy and the exploration of new ideas. Collaboration requires compromise, flexibility, and a willingness to let go of individual ownership and ego in order to create something beautiful together. it is a testament to the power of teamwork and the potential for collaboration to produce a work of art that is greater than the sum of its parts. © Concetta Pipia Contributing Editor/Reviewer ILA Magazine NY

PARATAXIS is a figure of speech or literary technique involving the placing of words, phrases or sentences next to each other without the use of synchronizing conjunctions (words that link other words and phrases together). PARATAXIS is a writing style giving equal importance to each element, creating both flow and effect. It is found in diverse works of literature, prose, poetry, slogans and phrases. Parataxis is utilized to create and emphasize THOUGHT-PROVOKING, unrelated imagery. I have observed this in several poems written by many poets. It is often used in rhetoric style, in delivering speech, sometimes presenting concepts one after another with logical connections, sometimes even in simplifying language, in playful, fun or in a simple manner. Parataxis in Poetry is often used as 2 different objects or concepts written side by side. The juxtaposition between entities gives rise to the readers to make their own interpretations. We recently offered this technique to poets. They were given the option to write prose, poetry or a passage using this particular technique in short, simple sentences without conjunctions, in vivid imagery and/or in metaphorical expression. Out of the 16 who entered, ILA Magazine chose 8 poets to be featured. "In Cadence is the Verity" All that was All that is All that will. © Ernest Kemedikumo Clinton Nigeria "Untitled" a gray day a silent whisper the black snow the beethoven moonlight a wandering crow those two eyes a blurred window an empty room and the paralyzed hope © Mehran Hashemi Iran "Whispers of Nature's Silent Song" Misty morning, quiet meadow, Soft whispers, dancing shadows. Gentle breeze, a robin's song, Sunrise paints, a world reborn. Leaves rustle, secrets unfold, Raindrop symphony, stories untold. Babbling brook, winding path, Moonlit dreams, a starry bath. Silent echoes, a poet's sigh, Canvas of stars, a cosmic tie. Serenade of night, woven dreams, Infinite sky, where wonder gleams. Amidst all, fragile hope, Junctions weave poetic depth. © Concetta Pipia US "Life's Journey" Cocoon. Fresh. Soared. loved. risked. victorious. unscathed. scars. triumphant drowned. breath anew. she lived. they relieved chances taken, odds met life's journey, no regrets. © Rosemarie Miranda Philippines "Moments of Our Lives" Moments of our lives Swift flowing rivers Transient travelers One-way ticket holders Returning never. These precious times Ride it pen in hand Savor all flavors Paint vivid images Store in caches. Sail in its waves Surf its high crests Hide in its troughs Leave the debris Under the depths. © Myrtle Eve Philippines "She" She sat, she stared, she heaved, she swung, she slipped, she rose She ogled, she smiled, she prayed. She dared, she blared, she cheered She moved, she wooed, she exuded Composed writ of will power. © Shiv Raj Pradhan Siliguri, West Bengal, India "AIR" Crisp cool air Sky so blue Kaleidoscopic beauty of nature (Parataxis Poem) "Risks" We fought, survived, cried Took risks, many chances lost Contemplating, giving it a try Reciprocity living in harmony Like a cacophony, silent scream Hidden away, in numbness angst Found some wisdom to be strong Tread into clarity, optimism spell A milestone trekked journey Delighfulness wrapped around Passing the odds and ends Rejoicing to a triumphant life © Gloria Magallanes-Loeb SFO, USA "Red Tulips" My love is as deep as dying Mounting on a winged horse I came down flying with the wind, Even the moon seen daily is untrue And the eyes search for the stars shimmering in the Orion blue Dreams of my heart gives me no pleasure Garden of red tulips, withered and the tiny grass was adamant, Return back my stolen thought My heart is in a frantic fosse, As darkness say the dawn shall not come again My silence fades into shadows, I wander around like a lonely traveler in bane Lost in the jungle of love, thorn in wane. © Sheila Ann Malaysia

The "Waltmarie" is a two-in-one poem invented by Candice Kubinec. It's a ten-lined poem, where odd lines have no specific syllabic count, meaning the poet writes in as many or as little syllables as desired. Even lines are written in 2 syllables and create a "mini poem" if read apart. There are no rules for rhyme or subject - the option is left to the poet to choose whether to rhyme or not. In December, we offered this challenge to our Facebook group members and out of 13 entries we chose 6 poets to be featured. "Untitled" Singing the song of my life feel it I digress it's a smile on my heart often With a note of stolid, reminding me of the moon Not a selcouth fact that my soul speaking But I went on my path to feel in silence © Sonal Rao India "Untitled" Let me accumulate vigor for wending to Challenge As everyday is selcouth challenge For life Today I'm stolid, strong and stout To face As I love, like and kiss my life in This strife Challenge shows the way of changeable life Boldly © Prasanna Bhatta India "Night Divine" Oh, holy night someone cried stolid Fall on Beyond magic outside selcouth heights Your knees Enable pronounced peace denied Hear the Spirits digress emboldened divine Angel Likened to heaven wending wings above cry Voices © Matt Elmore USA "Untitled" You always tell me you love me but Your eyes Digress what you profess, your actions Never Could hide the tale of stolid promises that most times Reflect The wend of some selcouth intentions, The words You utter could not convince me to believe in what You say © Myr Reyes E. Tejada Philippines "Ennui" The tedious hours tick into a dreary day Listless Amidst the humdrum, into relevance I digress Waiting This stolid countenance, unnerving and stale Calls for Something that wends the mind to connect A spark In the doldrums, a selcouth feeling aroused To last © Gus Perez Amio Philippines "Stolid" The sound of the moonlight in hopeless night Digress Thoughts setting in such wend Whispers Soaring higher by such undying doubts Until It's me, in selcouth and wandering I smile In the approaching moments of dawn At last © Russel Edles Philippines

Featured are poets who took to the backroads and byways in a December 2023 prompt, describing their journeys and jaunts through backdrops and panoramic imaginations with descriptive and remarkable poetry. One poet took ILA on the roads of life's journeys, another poet took to dream travel and two poets took the more picturesque route through beautiful landscapes. JOURNEY OF THE BACK ROADS As I set forth upon the winding paths, Through hidden valleys and forgotten lands, I am free, a gypsy of the open road, With naught but dreams and wonders at my hand. The back roads whisper secrets in my ear, Their whispers carry tales of old and true, Each turn unveils a world unknown, unseen, A canvas painted with shades of every hue. No bustling crowds or towering cityscapes, Just solitude and nature's symphony, The open road, a partner in my journey, A dance of wild, untouched serenity. Through fields of gold and shadowed mountain peaks, I wander, unencumbered and carefree, In every curve and bend, a story waits, A poet's heart, forever wild and free. © Concetta Pipia USA DREAMTIME TRAVEL Traveling alone at my own pace Gives me freedom and space; To relish the beauty of a journey With ample breathtaking views at liberty. The train I'm on, goes fast and slow. In every nook and cranny, it leaves me Feeling with vim, vigor and zest; It's a country train I'm on, going west. Passing through a scenic mountain range: The alluring vistas have no end; Along a zigzag rail in the midst of sylvans' trail; Under long dark tunnels, there's both chill and thrill. Valleys down the valley of blue haze Covering the landscape behind the maze Of rugged terrain and sandstone walls Weaving wild imaginings at sunset, when twilight falls. Echoes of myths these mountains breathe Whom people keep their honor and respect Native legends are bound by a legacy In dreamtime folklore, their ancestors lay. The train I'm on goes fast and slow For travelers like me wanting to know. How vast these mountains can keep abreast - The stories of old I heard in the west. © Leah Dancel SH-Australia DRIVING THROUGH LIFE Drive carefully unto this road called "life", People will be switching lanes on you without giving any prior signal nor warning. There may be humps and obstacles in the middle of the road. Sometimes... A traffic jam would stop you abruptly from getting a little faster to your destination. Or... A sudden, heavy downpour could give you that blurry vision while carefully driving to this journey of life. Yes! It's going to be a very rough and tangling road, And you may be burdened on the weight of the world caused by some wrong turns and bumps. But... Don't shrink from any setback that would come your way, Take the traces of each and every trial, heartache and pain that may come to crash you as motivations, To keep you on the right track. Piece by piece... Forge the fires that once consumed you into lighting your new path, And be more determined on your journey back to a better you. By taking the small acts of self love along the way, To be able to get a chance to rise from the ashes. And eventually... It will lead you back to the road where it breathed life anew for a clear and brighter future ahead. © Lame Beaver Philippines BACKROADS AND BYWAYS On the byway with the Majestic Mayon the world's volcano with a perfect cone provides a picturesque scene for travelers keeping warm company for the drivers The poet in my unleashed mixed emotions the clouds hovering, truly the reflection of the day's mood as it sashays in the horizon setting the tone for the colors' fusion Passing by this backroad is a pleasant task thoughts fly in many directions, no need to ask when the sunlight's delight for us to bask everything is dropped, no hiding behind masks. Filipinos are fortunate for this scenery the thin smoke cloaked by imagery cotton clouds a sight to behold when sometimes a rainbow appears with a pot of gold. A nomad, a gypsy I must be in a previous life for backroads and byways are familiar to me the thrill and joy I feel, I totally agree defines me as a person, born to be free. © Rosemarie Miranda Philippines Photography of Rosemarie Miranda