FEATURED POEMS/VIDEOS

This is a reading I recorded for the virtual STOKERCON 2021, the annual conference of the Horror Writers Association. We were alloted a 20-minute slot for folks who chose to read from their prose fiction or poetic works.

Song of an Ink-Stained Wretch

by Frank Coffman

 

 

Writing I chose. To be an ink-stained wretch,

Hoping to pen some Truth, some Fantasy,

Answer the Call to keep my mind full free,

Taking the “Pondering Path,” perhaps to etch

Fine lines in silver, sometimes gold—or lead.

To range around a world too wide to fetch

All wonder that might be found, but stretch

To whatever extent, by plodding, steady tread,

Experience, awakenings, vistas of awe!

Leaving behind many choices on that path;

Yet choose one must—whatever aftermath.

I am a part of all I ever saw,

And all I’ve seen remains a part of me.…

 

This inky River runs strong toward the Sea.