That Was the MUSE That Was

Poetry Narcosis

I don’t smoke tobacco,

I don’t drink much no more,

but when it comes to the writing,

I’m an out and out whore.

Like chasing the dragon,

or doing a line,

the addiction of writing

is the addiction of mine.

I crave the attention,

the comments, the praise,

the rush of adrenalin

when crafting a phrase,

and when I’m away 

from the keyboard or screen,

the withdrawal effects

are simply obscene.

That monkey’s a bitch,

he’s right on my back,

he’s feeding me juice,

he’s dealing me crack.

I wish it was easy

to just disavow-

and the worst thing about it?

I’m doing it now...

© Andrew Goodison

Poetry for uncertain times: the 2019 TS Eliot Prize shortlist reviewed

Andrew Goodison is a single father of two, full time carer and full time poet, living in the West of Ireland.

Momo Challenge

Be careful who your child friends

On What's app or other digital platforms-

Momo may pop up in Peppa Pig,

Fortnite or You-Tube

With dubious challenges.

It isn't a character spawned 

From a satanic cyber realm-

Doubtlessly promoted by teenagers,

Or sad figures attached to their computers

Wanting a laugh.

Cyber bullying and stealing has also cropped up,

But crank up digital safety awareness

And wipe the pesky thing out!

© Amanda Derry

MOMO 'CHALLENGE': POLICE WARN OVER HORRIFYING PICTURE THAT IS ADDING PEOPLE ON WHATSAPP IN CHILLING ATTACK

Amanda joined a Creative Writing class, following a breakdown, which played a significant role in her recovery. She now embeds literacy skills into classes that she teaches.