Set in the Capital City of Autumn, this collection brings to life the characters from The Great Gatsby through masterful poetry. The poems offer wisdom, particularly at the reflective hour of three a.m., and are infused with a whimsical touch, making them perfect for quiet evenings.
Set against the backdrop of autumn 1975, the story follows Sean as he grapples with the death of Lari Edison, the owner of his childhood comic book store. This event triggers memories of his youth, where he discovers secrets that threaten his family and stir conflict in his small town. As he navigates his newfound abilities, the narrative weaves together themes of childhood imagination, difficult decisions, and the fading essence of life along the Fraser River, enriched by a cast of memorable characters.
"Nearly sixty years of life, with all of its diversities and social pleasure, its joys and sorrows, successes and failures, a whole changing theatre cast of characters, some still loved and on the stage, others long since slipped into the darkened wings, and I remain most entranced by the simple glories of a fruit tree and a songbird. Why should it be so?" In this lush collection of essays Tim Bowling picks up the common questions, and beauties, of life and examines them closely. From questions of love and money, to the search for solitude in a clamouring world, to poetry and the place of art today, Bowling writes beautifully and thoughtfully on what it means to be alive now. And in the end, we come back to the moon, the trees, the salmon that swim to the sea and the call of the red-winged blackbird, which his mother imitated to call him inside at night, as a child.
The Duende of Tetherball fearlessly ransacks the scrutinizing role of the past on the present; the interactions and accountabilities of ourselves and other species; the challenges and pleasures of getting older and forever striving to balance our most cherished and often incomprehensible relationships both with the world and each other. Bowling strives to account for and address our human need to resolve the tension between personal freedom and a world burdened by increasing homogenization and centralized control by adopting an industry of personal fortitude and thoughtful redress. He seeks to remember and to remember again the lessons polished over a lifetime: "Fifteen, scared but still apt / to toss "damn thee black / thou cream-faced loon" / in PE class at the rippling back / of some hoop or net-bound jock, / I was learning - too soon - / the only lesson that counts: / how to be alone."
Tim Bowling's collection showcases his most powerful poems spanning two decades, featuring selections from his acclaimed works. His poetry is marked by intense emotion and inventive metaphors, navigating a range of tones from romantic to darkly tragic. With a deep commitment to poetic tradition, he celebrates the landscapes of the West Coast while exploring themes of nature, family, and mortality. The collection is rich in imagery and musicality, reflecting on history, society, and the complexities of middle age, all while emphasizing the transformative power of language.
"I grew up in a blue-collar town ten minutes down the road from a white-collar town. And I've spent most of my life uncomfortable in both places." With these opening words, accomplished poet Tim Bowling outlines the central tension that acts as a vital force in his newest book, Tenderman--the dichotomy between the sensitive poetic observer and the tough, working-class subject. Bowling returns again to the shores of his BC hometown that exert such a strong hold on his imagination, but through his focus on the tenderman figure, he also demonstrates wry self-awareness in doing so. The tenderman (a crewman on a salmon packing boat), who represents a fiercely independent everyman, acts as unintentional muse to the collection; its poems are often delivered through dialogues between poet and fisherman, reminiscences of their shared childhoods, or narratives delivered by the tenderman himself. As always, Bowling's verse is stunning in its haunting portrayal of West Coast imagery, depicting both natural beauty ("the Spanish silhouette/ crouched in warm salt dark") and the grim realities of fishing ("The kicks and slaps of a hold of dying fish--/ hands in an auditorium") with effortless grace.
Set in a richly imagined world, the narrative weaves together themes of loss and redemption through intricately developed characters. The haunting atmosphere draws readers into a story that explores the complexities of human emotion, showcasing the author's skill in crafting vivid imagery and profound insights. As the plot unfolds, it captivates with its depth and emotional resonance, leaving a lasting impression.
The Lost Coast presents a poignant exploration of the beauty of British Columbia alongside the profound sorrow for the decline of its salmon culture. Tim Bowling weaves lyrical reflections that mourn the loss of his former home while celebrating the enduring presence of the river and its wildlife in his thoughts. This work serves as both a tribute to nature's splendor and a heartfelt elegy for what has been lost.
The book serves as a comprehensive resource that connects dietitians, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, enhancing collaboration among healthcare professionals. It offers valuable insights and education that benefit both novice and seasoned practitioners, making it an essential tool for improving patient care and understanding the roles of various health disciplines.
Recognized for its exceptional quality, this poetry collection offers a poignant exploration of themes such as identity, nature, and human experience. The author skillfully weaves together vivid imagery and emotional depth, inviting readers to reflect on personal and universal truths. The work's innovative style and profound insights have garnered critical acclaim, culminating in its nomination for the prestigious 2003 Governor General's Award for Poetry.