A recurring concern in Australian society in recent times has been the behaviour of a significant proportion of men in relation to women. A series of deplorable crimes and misogynist actions and the continuing scourge of domestic violence across all stratas of our nation makes this a critical conversation, be it an uncomfortable one.  This is not a new phenomenon, but rather an enduring societal issue that continues to be raised as needing resolution, but sadly lacks committed action at several levels of society, in particular governmental levels- a place, not surprisingly, dominated by men.  Domestic violence and harassment is an abuse of power. It is the domination, coercion, intimidation and victimisation of one person by another using physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional means within relationships (intimate) and within workplaces. As a male, my first responsibility has been to listen to the individual and collective voices and stories of women who are speaking ...

Skeltonic Verse is named after its creator, English poet John Skelton (1460-1529), who tutored King Henry VIII when he was just a prince, spent time in prison, was censured by the Church and in general, seemed to have a great amount of fun. If you feel a strong urge to rhyme, this poetry form may be the way to go. Skeltonic verse should not be confused with the Blitz poem format I have shared previously, which uses a series of short lines to work down the page.   Skeltonic verse has a few simple rules: Lines are short with two or three stresses they have irregular rhymes they have irregular rhythms they have no stanza breaks and occasionally include some alliteration.                                                                                          ...

Living close to Melbourne, in the southern part of Australia, we experienced a somewhat  wetter, cooler summer this year. We were left wanting more after such a protracted Covid lockdown. We were however grateful for the reduced risk of bushfires.  So now that we are inside autumn, the balmy weather has come as an unexpected joy. Across the Easter break, the weather was without a doubt- delightful. It was an absolute cracker! A spirit lifter. I freely admit autumn is a season I find most appealing. Softer light, crisp morning air and balmy afternoons are easy to embrace. Autumn is all about change and change is what we make it. It can be exciting, invigorating, challenging and stressful, or a mix of many feelings.  The world around us is in constant change- clouds roll across the sky, night follows day, flower bloom and die, leaves change colour and fall. We constantly shift through the seasons. I am therefore looking closely at the world beyond my window and paying close...

  Poetry is capable of delivering so much to a reader. A lot of poetry sings and dances when we read it aloud. Poetry can also laugh and cry. It can shout and whisper. Poetry delivers emotion by drawing on a wide range of moods and feelings.  Best of all poetry does these things while using the very best of our words in tight spaces. This is what gives poetry it spark! Minimal words, maximum delivery. Poetry is as varied as life itself because it draws so much from the life we are here to live.  Importantly,  poetry is accessible to everyone of us. Anyone can write poetry should they choose to try. In order to write poetry however, it is essential to read a lot of poetry. You must read what you wish to write. This is what will make poetry your friend and trusted companion. Notice what poets are choosing to write about and also take note of the many ways they present poems on the page. Poetry offers such a feast of choices.  By reading poetry you gain a clear sen...

From 'Teachers and Writers Magazine' comes a host of poetic possibilities with 30 ideas in 30 days. Some familiar poetry forms, some new. Dive in! EXPLORE! Broaden the poetry options for you and your young poets! Click the link... Poetry Ideas Galore!