Announcements, Book Announcements, poetry

ANNOUNCEMENT: Loss X Mental Illness is Available

Loss X Mental Illness is a collection of poems written by Aariona Harris during one of the most emotionally and mentally challenging times of her life. Harris offers solidarity to other readers who may go through something similar and ensure they know they are not alone. While doing so, Harris was able to address her grief and expel all of the feelings associated with it, along with the emotional reactions caused by her diagnoses.

About Aariona Harris:

Aariona Harris is currently studying English Literature full-time. She balances a full-time job and college while also finding time to write. Her passion is reading, especially classic literature. Writing provides her with a sense of belonging.

She has a passion for literature, just like other members of literary history. Her desire is to share this love with everyone.​

Aariona has had her poetry published in various journals. This book is a product of a chaotic life. Every poem and word brought Aariona healing and acceptance.

What Reviewers Have to Say About Loss X Mental Illness:

There were moments reading this when I could see the 13-year-old I was sure would be a lawyer, throwing out a witty retort to any would be offensive adult, and there were times I saw the young woman clinging desperately to a hand she would never get to hold again, which remains the single most heartbreaking thing I have ever witnessed. Her mother was a huge fan of poetry, and meaningful lyrics; and she was incredible at spoken word, and I think she’d be really proud of what her daughter has accomplished here. I can’t wait for the next book.

Christeena L. Putzer

Aariona Harris captured so many emotions and feelings in her book “Loss X Mental Illness”. With each poem you can feel the emotions that are wrapped around every word. You can tell that the author has gone through so much in her short life. While reading I was shocked and amazed by what she has faced in a short amount of time. Not only does she bring attention to very important topics, she expands on them. This is a raw and honest view of mental health struggles at a young age. Grappling with life challenges that seem almost insurmountable including the loss of a mother, this narrative resonates deeply as it mirrors the silent battles that many young individuals face into today’s world. Aariona’s writing is viewed with a sense of resilience and hope as she navigates these challenges. It encourages a deeper understanding and empathy of those who battle mental health issues often in silence. The book is a beacon of hope and understanding. A reminder that even in our darkest time there is light to be found.

Rebecca Durgin

In Loss X Mental Illness, Harris bares her scarred and beautiful soul. Her poetry could not be more honest as she has sought to understand herself in the context of painful losses.

John Zimmerman

You can check out the page for Aariona Harris at ProlificPulse.com/AarionaHarris and access links for online stores.

Coming Soon!

Set your calendars for the virtual Book Launch for Loss X Mental Illness. March 23, 2024, at 5 p.m. EST. Watch for the upcoming registration link on this blog.

Announcements, poetry, Poets & Events

Let the Mourning Come by Kika Man

Photo by Kika Man

We recently held a Book Launch for Let the Mourning Come, the debut chapbook for prolific poet Kika Man. I must tell you that this book affected me. It is the kind of book you want to read over and again to truly digest the contents and feel all the feelings. Following is the Book Launch video and I encourage you to take this content in and digest the beautiful words expressed for Kika and this book, a capture of the heart.

Available on Lulu and via Kika Man, as well as selected book retailers.

ProlificPulse.com Kika Man’s Page

Short Fiction

Hope in the Desert

selective color photography of pine leaf
Photo by Char on Pexels.com

He moved to Needles, searching his soul, pining for his lost woman, she had left him right before Christmas eve.

Needless to say, his heart was broken, and he pondered the true meaning of life.

There was a sound in the distance, gaining volume as the sound of huffing and bells rang near.

Looking to the sky, noticing golden blades, shining brightly and hooves of tiny antlered animals, he was amazed.

Then the sounds of “Ho, ho, ho.” rang in his ears.

Gazing at the cactus and watching in amazement as the sleigh swooped down to land, he was once again revived to memories of his childhood, when life felt innocent and hope sprang in the daylight, and at this thought the smell of the pine trees overcame his senses and he was once again renewed to the meaning of hope.

This is in response to the Six Sentence Story prompt: Pine. Won’t you join in?

poetry, Short Fiction

Don’t Take My Legend From Me

photo-1527775507012-525d78a7e64f.jpg Photo by Mitchell Griest on Unsplash

An Acrostic

Letting go of all future concerns, it was difficult for Edward.

Edward had a heritage of hard-working family who instilled a work ethic.

Gently, Elaine helped Edward to his favorite resting chair so he could enjoy the sunbeams.

Even with plenty of love in place, supporting his every need, Edward felt sad.

Needing the help of others, Edward felt ashamed.

Determined to be the legend who wins, Edward set forth a plan.

…..

There you go! That’s my Six Sentence Story for this week. Thanks to Denise of Girlie on the Edge for faithfully providing these prompts and cheering us on. Won’t you join? Join us here

 

poetry

Autumn and SAD

sunset love lake resort
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.com

Autumn brings a change
when darkness comes too early
life can take a turn
SAD comes forth with depression
pleasures once known may be gone
sleeping may be more
energy waning, despite
dozing throughout night
slowing down movements and speech
restlessness, pacing, wringing
feeling less than worth
guilt taking over a life
concentration’s hard
forget making decisions
leaving feels as an option
it may start out young
but age is not the factor
more importantly
getting help is what matters
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800-273-TALK (8255)

For more information about SAD aka Seasonal Affective Disorder check these links:

NIMH Seasonal Affective Disorder

Mayo Clinic