Since I was 19 years old I’ve been passionate about ending prohibition of drugs. This book is the result of three years of living in Nimbin where the effects of the drug was and prohibition are obvious and shoved in your face daily.
Poetry to End Prohibition Nimbin Mardi Grass 2017
These effects caused by the systemic violence of the antiquated policy of drug prohibition include state violence, violence in the streets and massive amounts of self abuse and denial because of “fear of truth” and lack of harm reduction policy and programs.
So, if you want a free book to read on one of the most important health policy changes that can be implemented this year in 2020 then you need to read this and send a copy to every politician that you know because it is FREE and we need to make a change.
To celebrate 420 day.
I am giving away FREE my 3rd poetry book in the “Love and Lust in Nimbin” series for you
To celebrate the release of “Love in Nimbin Edition 2” I am giving it away for FREE as an ebook for 5 days from 13th of March 2020 to the 17th of March 2020.
It started on a Friday in a land not far away and the idea spread like wildfire and they began anew that day.
He stood up in a market place and read out his idea
“Lets Unify the Whole Planet and make all borders disappear”
“Let’s eliminate all scarcity and ensure a more than a basic wage”
“Let’s have a single Global Currency for Living, commerce and trade”
“Let’s eliminate all Nations, Passports, Visas, Border Walls”
“Let’s close all the armies, navies, airforces too and have no weapons at all”
And as he planted seeds his crowd it grew and grew
until the Whole World was listening not just one or two
He said, Everyone can have free energy, renewable and then we all will thrive
“When we end all governments will be a great day to be alive”
“Do no harm and nurture all and simplify all laws”
“Support and love all people and lift up all the poor”
Have a governance of things based on compassion and doing no harm
Then all people can live in love without fear, in security, without alarm”
Let’s make all food organic, all medicine for free,
free public transport, free schools and homes and life will be easy
“All people just want love, security, happiness and compassion
To create a life of love where all can thrive and live in passion
One Friday afternoon the man stood up and said
He told them his Ideas and world wide they spread
The following poetry was written by James Arthur Warren AKA Thundercloud in memory of Daniel Walmsley, victim of prohibition. Early one morning, the day before the Nimbin Mardi Grass cannabis law reform protestival I walked outside in the dark as the first light was coming. I heard the tawny frogmouth and listened. Then I went inside and wrote down what came to mind. This happened two more times and now I present the words of the wise owl to you.
There is an indigenous belief that tawny frogmouths are messengers of the dead. This spirit bird crowed three times, before the roosters and the kookaburra early in the morning. When the cock crows three times the truth is told.
The Tawny Frogmouth On Prohibition
The tawny frogmouth came to me very late last night
It was very early morning and it spoke very quiet
“I’ve something important to say and this is my position
Humans will not be free until you END PROHIBITION
I’m a tawny frogmouth owl and I see your frustration
With the punitive justice drug war of incarceration
77,000 non criminal users each year locked and jailed
And crime rates have risen the drug war has failed
80 percent of the injustice system is wasted each year
Locking up people for flowers you people are queer
It is obvious to all that prohibition has failed
When you can harm minimise and empty half the jails
Make access safe and clean drugs a right
Save billions of taxpayers dollars overnight
The police could focus on violent crime
Harm minimisation means there’s less people dying
Harm minimisation means that you support the abusers
Educate and rehabilitate the hard drug abusers
Less Overdoses and violent crime gangs will fade away
Grow herbs freely at home, juice cannabis each day
It is obvious to us that you must End Prohibition
Call all politicians today is your mission
And explain all the benefits of ending the war
On drugs, children, the sick, elderly and poor
Write emails, make videos, protest and shout
End prohibition, let the prisoners out
Time to end prohibition and the drug war
On the socially vulnerable, sick, black and poor
It makes me so mad I’m usually so quiet
Said the tawny frogmouth, I want to sleep now it’s light
The Tawny Frogmouth part 2
The tawny frogmouth came to me early in the morning
As the clouds turned red, as the sun was dawning
The wise old owl hooted and the words he spoke were true
“I’m a tawny frogmouth owl, this is what you need to do”
“Write down what I tell you, what I have to say,
It’s time you humans ended all drug prohibition today
Us tawny frogmouth owls are spirits of the dead
Who died from overdoses and systemic violence” he said
“I know you find it weird and difficult to believe
But tawny frogmouth owls are loved ones that you grieve”
“That is why I’m here with my message for you
Ending Prohibition will save loved ones lives it’s true
I’m a tawny frogmouth owl and I really give a hoot
Prohibition harms but harm minimization is beaut”
I stood there quietly listening to what the wise owl said
“End all prohibition and harm minimization instead
When you end all prohibition everything will be alright
Maybe then” the tawny frogmouth said, “I’ll get some sleep at night”
A kookaburra came in the light of early morning
“Listen to the tawny frogmouth, listen to his warning”
“To end all prohibition and empty half the jails
Change your outdated laws because prohibition has failed”
The kookaburra flew off laughing “Prohibition is a failure”
End all prohibition, hurry up Australia”
The Tawny Frogmouth part 3
The tawny frogmouth owl came to me again
Said, “I’ve got a very important message for you my friend
I’ve come to visit you early in the morning
Because you are the one who will sound my warning
We wise owls think you humans are very strange
You seem so conservative and reluctant to embrace change
Your outdated laws are causing much frustration
Time to End Prohibition and change this situation
It isn’t rocket science in fact is plain to see
That your prohibition laws take people’s rights to be
Healthy, free and happy and lock them in a prison
Jails full of poor and black, incarceration rates have risen
Mummy went to jail, Nana went there too
All because of the herbal cannabis they grew
Prohibition is an attack on human rights
It is such an injustice, I have trouble sleeping at night
Humans do you get it? I do I’m an owl
Adopt harm minimization and end prohibition now
Prohibition is social manipulation, slavery in disguise
Prohibition causes violent crime to rise
When prohibition exists people live in fear
Of truth and being caught, imprisoned for a year
Please call your politicians the tawny frogmouth said
When you harm minimise, I can go to bed
Please reconsider your perspective on prohibition of drugs
Free the plants and herbs and undercut the thugs
When you end prohibition there will be a reduction in crime
With harm minimization, there will be less parents crying
When you end prohibition billions of dollars will be saved
Less cops, prisons, lawyers, deaths, more health and happiness every day
I have nearly finished, I’ll try to have a sleep
But I find it very difficult because I often weep
For the victims of the drug war, those overdosed and dead
Brothers, sisters, children’s deaths preventable he said
I’m a tawny frogmouth owl and there is something you must do
Harm minimise, end prohibition now what I’m saying is true
Everyone can see prohibition is a failure
End prohibition now change is good Australia
There is one more thing, you cannot waste your vote
Put a 1 next to the HEMP PARTY in the Senate when you vote.”
#auspol #EndProhibition #MinimiseHarm #Vote1HEMP
Thundercloud’s book End Prohibition Poetry Nimbin
has been updated and added to in this
2020
This poem and many more are available in my newest book Poetry to End Prohibition 420 2020 edition which I am currently crowd funding to print and release the book by the 20th of April 2020 in time for the 420 international day of protest against prohibition.
James Arthur Warren (BSc AES, GCTSL, MTESOL)
AKA Thundercloud Repairian
email:1english1@gmail.com
Writer, poet, performer and finalist in the 2019 Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Competition
Photo: Tawny Frogmouth in front of Atlantis by James Arthur Warren https://www.instagram.com/1english1video/
Read on to find out about my newest book End Prohibition Poetry Nimbin Mardi Grass 2019 released especially for the cannabis law reform rally in Nimbin, New South Wales, Australia,
I arrived in Nimbin in early May 2017 for Mardi Grass and met another newcomer to Nimbin by the name of Daniel Walmsley. Daniel was a kind young man in his mid twenties and talented artist who had just received an arts grant. He was excited to be able to do what he loved and be paid for it. Unfortunately for Daniel he overdosed and choked in his vomit early one Saturday morning. I happened to be going for an early morning walk when I came across a nurse trying to resuscitate Daniel and gave assistance
The following poem is dedicated to the memory of Daniel and all the victims of the “War on drugs” which is really a war on people who were not able to get safe doses when they were self medicating because of the punitive justice system which puts “users” in to “fear of truth”, hiding their addictions and unable to get assistance in recovery. Daniel Walmsley
It started on a cold Friday
The drumming circle, dance and play
All the families gathered around
Barefoot on the cold hard ground
Drummers drumming having fun
Stomping feet down goes the sun
Fires burning in the parks
Shooting stars and burning sparks
Rhythmic hands all beat it out
The drumming circle dance about
Nimbin on a Friday night
Drum and dance by fire light
They bring their drums out to the street
Where dancing feet move to the beat
Dreadlocks smokes it clean and green
He beats his blue drum with the team
Down by the fire at the Oasis
There’s lots of friends and friendly faces
Try this hit, it won’t hurt you
He overdoses and starts to spew
Starts the walk to hospital
“I’m OhDee-ing” He starts to call
Falls down to the cold hard ground
In his vomit starts to drown
Nurse and passers by all thump
On his heart they start to pump
“Call an ambulance” they cry
“Daniel, Daniel, please don’t die
CPR the people start
Giving breath and pumping heart
Police and ambulance arrived
For forty five minutes we all tried
Sun comes up cold Saturday
Daniel’s soul flies away
Leaving behind broken hearts
Drawing and paintings of Daniel’s arts
Overdosed on cold concrete
Laying dead with cold bare feet
End prohibition right now, today
Harm minimisation saves lives we say
Laying on the cold hard ground
His heart stopped and just shut down
His life might be a memory
End prohibition for safety
Thundercloud’s new book End Prohibition Poetry Nimbin Mardi Grass 2019
Dedicated to the memory of Daniel Walmsley
Specially produced for Mardi Grass, I have copies of my new book now available, End Prohibition Poetry Nimbin Mardi Grass 2019 for $10+$2.50 postage in Australia.
It’s only available directly from me so send me an email 1english1@gmail.com if you would like a copy or pop in to fantAsian Eatery Nimbin to pick up a copy.
Sample
If you were the parent of a child who was sick would you give cannabis to your son named Rick?
If you were a wife of a man with cancer would you give cannabis as a life enhancer?
If you were a doctor and you knew a cure, pharmaceutical poisons or a herb that’s pure?
If a harmless herb can heal many people why is it registered, licensed, illegal?
The Banjo Paterson Bush Poetry Festival in Orange, New South Wales begins on the 17th of February. There are a number of events happening throughout Orange and the surrounding district until the 24th of February 2019.
Events include The Banjo Paterson Bush Poetry Competition which I am entering a poem titled “Our Darling is Dying”. There is also Rotary Brekky and Poetry on the Pavers as well as Poetry in the Pub featuring the Poet’s Brawl. In the poets brawl, poets have one minute to deliver any original poem, bush, slam, rhyming, non-rhyming but must use both the words “Banjo” and “Orange”.
“Andy Banjo Player” is the poem I have written for the “poets brawl”, tell me what you think in the comments.
Andy played a banjo with an orange and he played it very bad
It made a juicy squishy sound and it drove his mother mad
Orange juice went everywhere and pith and peel too
The ants came by the millions and the fruit flies flew
He played with so much gusto and a lot of zeal
Grated it and juiced, he was left with orange peel
Only when he ran out of juice did Andy’s playing stop
So he ran out to a fruit stall and bought a kilo from the shop
Playing “Orange Crush”, the song from REM
Played every single orange till he’d juiced all of them
Bottled it and marketed it and only told the truth
Under the trade make of Andy’s Banjo Orange Juice
Copyright 2019
If you like this poetry and want to read more please follow me or you can also find me on Youtube at 1english1video
When I looked in the mirror last year I didn’t like what I had become…..weak and overweight. This was not like how I want to see myself and it’s also not how I want other people to see me, As a father of sons and also a public figure it’s important to present an image of health and wellness as I have always been one to lead by example and not one to tell other people how to live their lives. I also have a father who has been a very good role model of what can happen when unhealthy dietary habits catch up on you as he had part of his bowel removed when I was young due to diverticulitis. So in my teenage years I adopted healthy eating such as fruit for breakfast and avoiding high energy, nutrient deficient processed food. One of my majors was environmental pollution and health so I have always tended to eat healthily and avoid chemical pollutants.
This year, 2023, I have leveled up my health and fitness training because I didn’t like the look of my reflection nor the numbers on the scales. So I restarted swimming 2 or 3 times per week, I am lifting in the gym 3 or 4 times a week as well as my daily breathing, meditation and yoga routine. I have also begun eating less bread and high glycemic index foods. The results are showing and although I’v only lost about 4 kilograms, most of the fat has been converted to muscle so I am visibly slimmer and stronger.
Why am I telling you this? The Guyra Ag Show is coming up and there are prize categories for Guyra Show Girl and Guyra Show Guy, I said half joking (because in all humility, I think I’d have a good chance at winning) that I could go in it to a friend. She was horrified and ranted about how the Australian of the year got her award for the work she’s done about “stopping the objectification of people. ” She was so insenced by the “Guyra Show Guy” competition that she said she was going to write to the “Guyra Show Society” She’s wrong, the Australian of the year is documentary director Taryn Brumfitt who leads the Body Image Movement, an Adelaide-based organisation that teaches people to look after, love and appreciate their bodies. It is a body positivity movement that Taryn Brumfitt leads.
This lead me to doing my own research on the objectification of people and looking at both sides of the argument. I will begin by arguing why the objectification of people can be harmful and then I explore arguments why is is OK for a man to objectify himself and then how self objectification by women is sexually empowering.
Why objectification of some people is harmful.
The objectification of individuals, regardless of gender, is a harmful practice that reduces a person to nothing more than a physical object for others to admire or desire. However, the objectification of men and women is different in both its form and consequences.
The objectification of women has been a widespread issue for centuries and is still prevalent in today’s society. Women are often objectified through the media, advertisements, and other forms of popular culture, where they are shown as passive objects for the male gaze. This type of objectification often sexualizes women’s bodies and reduces them to nothing more than objects for sexual pleasure. The consequences of this type of objectification can be damaging to a woman’s self-esteem, self-worth, and can lead to a negative body image.
On the other hand, the objectification of men is a more recent phenomenon that has been brought to light in recent times. Unlike the objectification of women, which often sexualizes their bodies, the objectification of men tends to focus on their physical strength and athleticism. This can be seen in advertisements and media that depict men as strong and muscular, promoting a particular type of masculinity. While this type of objectification may seem less harmful, it can still have negative consequences. For example, it can contribute to the pressure on men to conform to a particular body type, leading to anxiety and body shaming.
Furthermore, while both men and women are objectified, the consequences of this objectification are not equal. The objectification of women is often tied to sexism, misogyny, and the patriarchal system, which is why it can lead to gender-based violence and discrimination. On the other hand, the objectification of men is tied to toxic masculinity and the pressure to conform to traditional masculine gender roles, which can lead to harmful behaviours such as aggression and the suppression of emotions.
In conclusion, the objectification of men and women is different in both its form and consequences. While both are harmful, the objectification of women is can be tied to sexism and misogyny, while the objectification of men can be tied to toxic masculinity. It is important to acknowledge these differences and some people think it is important to work towards ending the objectification of all individuals, regardless of gender. This could be achieved through the promotion of body positivity, challenging harmful societal norms and expectations, and educating people about the harmful consequences of objectification.
How self objectification by men promotes body positivity.
The objectification of individuals, whether it is someone else objectifying them or themselves, is often seen as a negative and harmful practice. However, there is a growing argument that self-objectification can be a positive and empowering experience for some individuals, including men. In this essay, I will argue that it is okay for a man to objectify himself and explain why.
Self-objectification is a process in which an individual evaluates themselves based on their physical appearance and sexual desirability. For men, this can involve striving for a particular body type or physical appearance that they believe will make them more attractive to others. While this may seem like a negative practice, some argue that it can be a form of self-expression and a way for men to assert their individuality and control over their bodies.
For example, some men may objectify themselves in order to feel more confident and assertive. By focusing on their physical appearance and striving to achieve a particular body type, they may feel a sense of pride and empowerment. This can lead to improved self-esteem and a more positive body image, which can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being.
Moreover, self-objectification can be a way for men to express their sexuality and explore their sexual desires. By focusing on their physical appearance and sexual desirability, they may feel more comfortable and confident in their sexual identity and expression. This can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable sexual life, which is an important aspect of overall well-being.
It is also important to note that self-objectification is a personal choice and individual experience. While it may not be right for everyone, it is important to respect an individual’s right to choose how they want to present themselves and express their sexuality. The pressure to conform to traditional masculine gender roles can be harmful and restrictive, and self-objectification can provide a space for men to reject these norms and assert their individuality.
In conclusion, while the objectification of individuals is often seen as a negative and harmful practice, it is okay for a man to objectify himself. This can be a form of self-expression, a way to assert individuality and control over their bodies, and a way to explore their sexuality. As long as it is a personal choice and not used to harm others, self-objectification can be a positive and empowering experience for some men.
Can Self Objectification by Women be Sexual Empowerment?
The objectification of individuals, particularly women, has long been seen as a negative and harmful practice. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards a more accepting and even celebratory view of women who objectify themselves. This essay will explore why it is becoming more acceptable for a woman to objectify herself.
One reason is the rise of the body positivity movement, which encourages individuals to love and embrace their bodies, regardless of shape or size. This movement has challenged traditional beauty standards and encouraged people to see their bodies as something to be celebrated rather than criticised. This has created a more accepting and inclusive environment for women who choose to objectify themselves, whether it is through posting sexy selfies or showing off their bodies in tight-fitting clothing
Another reason is the increasing visibility and representation of women in popular culture, who objectify themselves. From music videos to reality TV shows, women are increasingly presenting themselves in sexually suggestive and provocative ways. This has led to a normalisation of women objectifying themselves, and a greater acceptance of this type of self-expression.
Furthermore, the rise of social media has allowed for women to have greater control over their self-presentation and objectification. Through platforms such as Instagram, women can curate and control their online image, and choose to present themselves in a sexually suggestive or objectifying way if they so choose. This has given women greater agency over their self-expression and has made it more acceptable for them to objectify themselves.
It is also important to note that self-objectification can be a form of empowerment and self-expression for some women. By choosing to present themselves in a sexualised or objectifying way, they are asserting their individuality and control over their bodies. This can lead to a greater sense of confidence and body positivity, which can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being.
In conclusion, it is becoming more acceptable for a woman to objectify herself due to the rise of the body positivity movement, the increasing representation and visibility of women who objectify themselves in popular culture, and the greater control and agency provided by social media. While self-objectification may not be right for everyone, it is important to respect a woman’s right to choose how she wants to present herself and express her sexuality.
Poetry: When Body Positivity Meets Gaslighting.
When body positivity meet gaslighting. (Satire) While researching for the above article I came across some phrases used to promote body positivity and also some phrases used to “body shame” and thought what would happen if you combined the body positivity phrases with the body shaming phrases. This is meant purely as satire.
“You are beautiful just the way you are but you’re too skinny/fat”
“Your body is amazing and you need to lose weight”
“Although you’re not toned enough you are worthy of love and respect, regardless of your size or shape.”
“Your body is a temple with love handles and cellulite treat it with care and respect.”
“You are more than your appearance and your flabby arms and legs.”
“Your body is strong and capable even with a muffin top.”
“Embrace your unique features, imperfections and thick waist, they make you who you are.”
“Focus on what your body can do, not your small breasts, big butt and double chin..”
“Health and happiness are more important than any physical characteristic like your ugly face”
“Your body is a work of art with a big belly, created perfectly for you.”
“Be kind to yourself and your body, it’s the only two you have. “
“Your body and thunder thighs are a reflection of the amazing person you are.”
“You need to work on your abs and acne but you are enough, just as you are.”
“Every body is a good body except that you have bad posture.”
“Your body is a source of pride and joy with a pot belly”
“You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own dry, flaky and wrinkly skin.”
“Celebrate your body for all the amazing things it allows you to do like sit and watch TV.”
“Focus on nourishing and loving your body, not changing your flat butt.”
“Your body is perfect in its own unique way with that squashed face and no teeth. “
“Remember, beauty comes in all shapes and sizes even very wide hips.”
And that is that…. Except the last thing that I wanted to say is that we are currently in the most unhealthily obese period in human history with over 50% of the entire population of the planet overweight or obese. That sure is one big opportunity for improvement. Stay well and let me know what you think in the comments.
The term “bogan” is a term that originated in Australia and has been used to describe a particular subculture within the country. The word has been in use for several decades and has undergone a number of transformations in meaning over time.
The exact origin of the term is uncertain, but it is thought to have first been used in the 1970s as a slang term to describe a person who was perceived as being unrefined or lacking in taste or cultural awareness. This person was typically seen as being working-class and having a distinctive Australian accent. The term was often used to describe people who lived in the suburbs or outer regions of cities, as well as those who were involved in motor sports or other working-class pursuits.
Over time, the meaning of the term “bogan” has evolved and become more complex. While it still retains its original connotations of being unsophisticated and lacking in taste, it has also come to be associated with a particular subculture that is often seen as being rowdy, loud, and unrefined. This subculture is often associated with heavy drinking, partying, and other forms of reckless behavior.
Despite the negative connotations associated with the term, it has become an important part of Australian cultural identity and is widely used in the country. Many Australians embrace the term and use it in a self-deprecating or humorous manner, while others find it offensive and view it as an insult.
In recent years, the term “bogan” has become more widely known and has been used in other English-speaking countries. While its meaning and usage can vary in different countries, it remains a key part of Australian cultural identity and continues to be a subject of interest and debate.
In conclusion, the term “bogan” has a complex and evolving history in Australia. While it continues to be associated with negative stereotypes, it is also an important part of the country’s cultural identity and is widely used in a variety of different contexts.
Barry is a bogan known to his mates as Bazza
Bazza’s shag is a sheila called Sharon aka Shazza
They have a daughter named Karen, nicknamed Kazza
Daren is their son, often called Dazza
Now Bazza, Shazza, Kazza and Dazza live in Logan
Shazza has a loud voice, is never quietly spoken
Dazza loves billies but Kazza loves tokin’
Joints, VB, Commodores and Winnie Blue smokin’
Every night you’ll find Bazza at the pub
With his best mate known as “Grub”
Who walks along the street pickin’ up ciggie butts
Grub has this habit of playing with his nuts
Grub likes bare feet and Bazza wears thongs
When they’re pissed they love singing AC/DC songs
Cooking snags on the barbie with a pair of tongs
While Shazza and her girlfriends pack the fellas’ bongs
Dazza drifts his commodore around street bends
Kazza is always swearing and often offends
Bazza loves the massage parlour with his Asian girl-friends
An extra fifty bucks always ensures happy ends
By Thundercloud Repairian
This poem is meant as pure satire and if anyone takes offence, eat a bag of cement and harden up.
I’ve just been playing around with ChatGPT, an Artificial Intelligence app which writes pretty much whatever you ask it. I’ve had it create a 3 day poetry festival event management plan, and a draft program, a marketing and advertising plan, a list of 10 Australian Poetry Societies and organisations and more.
I decided to get it to do more complex tasks and ended up with the following two questions and associated answers. :
Create a list of topics to cover in a 2 hour workshop on poetry performance
Create a list of topics to cover in a 2 hour workshop about “Writing from Personal Experience”
Next I wanted to see if it could research and “write 1000 word essay about the history of surrealism poetry” and sure enough right before my very eyes it began to write the following 1000 word essay. The following 1000 words were created at https://chat.openai.com/chat by asking the following question.
Surrealism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century. It is characterised by a focus on the subconscious, the irrational, and the fantastical, and is known for its use of symbolism, metaphor, and other literary devices to create a sense of disorientation and dreamlike imagery. In poetry, surrealism is known for its use of free association, symbolism, and a disregard for traditional forms, syntax and grammar.
The origins of surrealism can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the publication of the French poet André Breton’s “Surrealism and Painting” in 1924. In this book, Breton defined surrealism as “pure psychic automatism, by which one proposes to express, either verbally, in writing, or by any other manner, the real functioning of thought.” This definition was a rejection of traditional forms of poetry and art, which Breton felt were too limited in their ability to express the full range of human experience.
One of the key figures in the early days of surrealism was the poet and artist Guillaume Apollinaire. Apollinaire was a major influence on the development of surrealism, and his work was characterised by its use of free association, symbolism, and a disregard for traditional forms. His poem “The Joy of Life” is considered to be one of the earliest examples of surrealist poetry.
Another key figure in the early days of surrealism was the poet Paul Eluard. Eluard’s poetry is characterised by its use of symbolism and metaphor, and its focus on the subconscious and the irrational. He is considered to be one of the most important poets of the surrealist movement, and his work continues to be widely read and studied today.
The first official Surrealist group was founded in Paris in 1924, led by André Breton. The group was composed of poets, artists, and intellectuals who shared a common interest in the subconscious, the irrational, and the fantastical. The group held regular meetings and exhibitions, and their work was characterised by its use of free association, symbolism, and a disregard for traditional forms.
Surrealism quickly spread beyond France and became a global movement, with groups forming in countries such as Belgium, Spain, and the United States. In the United States, the poet and artist Wallace Stevens is considered to be one of the major figures of the American Surrealist movement. His poetry is characterised by its use of symbolism, metaphor, and a disregard for traditional forms, and it continues to be widely read and studied today.
Surrealism had a profound impact on the world of poetry, and it continues to be a major influence on poets today. The focus on the subconscious, the irrational, and the fantastical has led to a renewed interest in the power of symbolism and metaphor in poetry, and many poets continue to explore these themes in their work. The use of free association, symbolism, and a disregard for traditional forms has also led to a renewed interest in experimental forms of poetry, such as concrete poetry and visual poetry.
In conclusion, Surrealism poetry is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century characterised by a focus on the subconscious, the irrational, and the fantastical, and is known for its use of symbolism, metaphor, and other literary devices to create a sense of disorientation and dreamlike imagery. The movement was led by André Breton in France, and quickly spread globally to have a profound impact on the world of poetry, influencing poets and artists to this day. With its disregard for traditional forms and syntax, it has led to a renewed interest in experimental forms of poetry.
Now for the bit that you are waiting for: Actual Surrealism poetry. Last week I wrote a bit about a psychedelic cow and I think thats about the most surreal thing that I’ve written recently.
She was a cow
In the here and now
Ate a lot of grass
Let it pass out her ass
Every day she ruminated
As she was so fated
She’d walk to the shed
Milked, and fed
But her world went BOOM
One day when she found and ate a mushroom
Became a psychedelic cow
Didn’t understand how
Life became so great
She began to create
Cow poetry, and art
Continued to fart
And belch methane
But inside her brain
We’re so many thoughts
Like, “why don’t cows play ball sports?”
A psychedelic cow
Had horns on her brow
Loved to surf
Farmed her own turf
Enslaved the farmer
For a Hindu cow… Karma
Made him work the field
To increase the turf yeild
And also pull the plough
The psychedelic Hindu turf farm owning cow
An interesting cow
Sat on a tree bough
Thinking, “I’m woke”
“Just one more toke
Of this DMT
Experienced oneness and extasy
And the Source of creation
All is mind and vibration
As above, so below
On all cows, farmers and farms, the winds blow
She was a cow
Fell in love with a sow
Their love crossed species
They have different faeces
Eat different food
They can’t have a brood
But they’re great friends
Cow and Pig lesbians
Who both love to fart
Plus eat mushrooms and create art.
Somehow I manage to keep up my writing of poetry regardless of the fact that I am running the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame full time. This includes my weekly “Chillin’ Tuesday Poetcast” and Wednesday Words Open Mic where new poets are always welcome. See the the YouTube channel for the Australian poetry Hall of Fame.
Wednesday Words Open Mic Night is every week at the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame and walk ups and new poets and readers are always welcome.
We are currently experiencing Guyra’s Lamb and Potato Festival for 2023 and every day I am also doing a poetry show at 2pm.
I could certainly do with with a couple of hundred thousand dollars, half a million….. better….. a million…..? That would really allow me to celebrate poetry in a big way.
Small poetry
Has
IMPACT
small words whack!
Over the last nearly three years I have been working on one of the most important cultural heritage/art/literature projects in modern Australia. In the 24th of March 2020, at the beginning of the Australian COVID19 lockdown I opened the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame in Guyra’s Arcadia Theatre.
It hasn’t been easy. It was always going to be a challenge and a lot of work but I always knew it was going to work. Now we hold a weekly poetry open mic, Wednesday Words and I also do a VidCast or PoetCast every Tuesday which you can see on the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame YouTube channel. I have nurtured and inspired new poets. I have inspired the adult children of dead poets to publish deceased elders poetry.
Plus there is the day to day running of the Australian poetry Hall of Fame which includes pretty much everything. Then I still find time to write poetry and create art, meditate, do yoga, swim, and have time to myself (actually I have little time to myself and when I do, it’s really valued)
So here I am on a Saturday night writing a blog post that I began 6 months ago. One of the wonderful things that has happened in the past week was that I regained control of my hacked facebook account. This meant that I could copy and paste my entire anthology of 2022 poetry into one document. It turns out that I also managed to write over 52 thousand words of poetry on 2022 so I am going to share a few of the poems below. The first is “The Colour of Poetry” and “I spoke with a thousand dead poets”
If poetry were a colour,
it would be a multifaceted rainbow
Red sunsets of beauty and anger,
Pristine white as falling snow
Orange of the desert plains,
Yellow like the sunflowers
Changing hues of fiery flames
Grey clouds bringing showers
Magenta like a summer rose
Ochre like the land and sand
Peacock tails when they pose
Emerald green forest stand
Azure blue as a clear sky
Turquoise of a tropical sea
Eucalyptus blueish green
Changing coloured maple tree
Pink of the cherry blossoms
Pinkish orange of a peach
Tea stains on tea cup bottoms
A golden sandy beach
The browns of nightingales
Soft purple lavender hues
Blues of the blue whales
Wisteria and burnt bamboo
Pastel green and also mint
The liquid black of writing ink
Don’t forget baby pink
Poetry is a rainbow to make you think.
The next poem was inspired by all the dead poets. There are times where I am working so late that I just unroll my yoga mat in the Poetry Hall of Fame, lay down with a blanket and fall asleep surrounded by all the poet portraits that I have drawn for the “hall of fame”, the result is the following poem:
I spoke with a plethora of deceased poets
You know! Poets that are dead
I asked a question of a thousand poets
And this is what they all said
We support you but we are not alive
You need to do what you must do
Tell the world about us and you’ll thrive
A thousand dead poets said this is true
I thanked the dead poets for their poetry
And the people like me inspired
By planting a seed and growing a poet tree
Poets words remain after they’ve retired
A thousand dead poets surround me
Their poetry archived and preserved
Packets of seeds to grow poet trees
A thousand future poets I have served.
Every April there is a Facebook poetry group called “The Dirty Thirty” and the challenge is to write one poem per day for the month of April and also write to the prompt. I always find it really interesting to see what other poets come up with. The following is one that I wrote for day six of the dirty thirty 2022, I’m not too sure what the prompt was but this is what happened.
Lately I’ve been feeling an increase in energy by focusing more consciously on my health and also increasing the flow of my Qi. I love sitting in the sun stretching, breathing deep, doing yoga, also stretching in the morning after sleep. Upon waking in the morning read a verse of Tao Teh Ching, channel my Qi by combining my soul and spirit for balance and wellbeing. Drink rainwater, flow, don’t cut my hair, inhale deep, hold then blow, exhale all my air, ground to earth, create inner fire, lighten, let go but always aspire to be stronger, fitter, joyful, faster, personally develop, become a self master. Water, fire, earth, metal, wood, ether everywhere, as even in the darkest night, the universe is connected in networks of ultraviolet light, now it’s time to share the recent poetry that I write.
The below selection of my recent poetry highlights that I’ve been revisiting the spiritual philosophy of Lao Tzu and the Tao Teh Ching. However, I was recently having a break and met a guy who had recently finished his thesis in poetry and surrealism. This has inspired me to also embrace the surrealism aspects of automatic writing and nonsensical juxtaposition which you’ll certainly find in the final poem below.
Potential
Someone needs to hear it Maybe many, maybe few, I haven’t reached my full potential There’s more potential in you
In this world we become What about us we believe Think you’re smart or dumb That’s what you’ll achieve
You’ve dreams, take action Set a goal, make a plan Take a step and make traction To be a conscious human
Focus on your purpose See what you’ll create You get what you deserve You deserve a life that’s great
You haven’t reached your full potential Neither have I This is elemental You will fly before you die
Climb a mountain or a hill Finish off your book It only take your will In the mirror you can look
Self reflect, don’t hide Follow all your dreams Go on a long train ride Or lead a camel team
Someone needs to hear it There’s more that you must do Time to raise your spirit Do what you’d love to do.
I’ll say it one more time It is elemental Everything will be fine You have much potential.
Elements
Earth We must be Born of the Earth Our home from our birth We know no other place than here Back to earth at the end Just like you my friend We all disappear Into dust
Air We breathe Inhale the air Surrounding us Infinite Source everywhere With the greatest of ease Exhaling the air We breathe. Air
Water We flow As rivers snake Never grasping, let go As the rain falls give thanks Once dry beds now flow over banks Water is life of everyone we know An ocean, the seas, lake Waters flow Rain, hail Snow.
Fire Desire To burn Unmitigated lust Spontaneously combust Erupt, burst into flames Decarboxylation Another name For a flame Red head Fire
Ether Ethereal Do I ever feel you? Sense you, taste you, smell you I can’t show you But know you Ethereal Brew
Pauses… Assist in the course of nature but… Never……. Interfere in it.
A pause….is……never really there A pause is…….. …… Nothing
Tao koan choZen
Know no good, know no bad It is what it is neither happy nor sad
When the mystic masculine Yang Knows the mystic feminine Yin Begets the childish Innocence Of Tao Teh Ching
The whole universe is between white and black Obscurity in Fame, glory in humility At the end each road begins a new track All roads are connected in a network of Unity
Umbrellas do more than stop the rain Breathing deeply increases Qi The righteous never feign Source is infinite energy
I cannot change the world to conquer it as I see fit The world would be spoiled It’s not my business to change it
Some things happen slowly and others faster. Some are vegan, or eat meat, bread and pasta There’s tall, short, in between, trains late at the station letting what you can’t control affect you causes anger and frustration
Water has no hands Water must flow It doesn’t hold the banks Let the dam water go
The scholar learns more in everyway Give me less knowledge but more serenity each day. If I need to wait in line, please put me last So that I can experience life as vast
The important part of each cup is where there is nothing The important part of a home is where there is nothing The important part of a door is where there is nothing The important part of a shirt is where there is nothing.
Everything in nothing and nothing in everything.
Air Bender
There’s a Divine Energy that flows though you and me That with consistent dedication and focus you can raise and it’s called Qi It comes from a geometric connected field all around, is a Source That animates all living things and provides life with a Force It is an internal lightning and you can move it up and down Absorb it from the Quantum field, send it flying all around Learn meditation, breathing, get ligthe, flexible and light As a Master Energy Bender you’ll spark up in the night Then you can have access to the Source that gives Energy to me Unblock, focus and raise, send sparks of lightning called Qi.
My personal surrealism revival
A fish and a frog, pig and a bulldog Lived in a giant Gourd with both water and air Each day the fish asked the dog, “may I plait your hair?” The bulldog replied, with iths eyes agog, “my hair isn’t long enough because I’m a bulldog”
The frog hopped off to the butcher shop and ordered a bone Then the Pig began to eat a taxi driver’s hat There was a knock at the gourd door and in walked a cat That just started taking selfies with all the other animals smartphones Then proceeded to lay out a barrier of traffic control cones.
The two suns became one and then split into three The moon had absolutely no idea where to go In the hottest part of the Sahara it began to snow Here’s me with a Coke bottle lid flying over the ocean free Needing $1 million to stop the monster eating 11 year old me.
Approaching the giant gourd OMG was all I could say As an automatic landing pad appeared To see if this was real I pitched myself, pulled my beard I’m in a lucid dream, I’m sleeping but in a landing bay So I materialized a Psytrance DJ and we danced for a night and day
A fish, frog, pig, bulldog, cat, DJ, also me Called all of our friends and invited them to a dance There were all kinds of animals and people wearing psychedelic pants When the dance was over we flew home across the sea You might Not believe it but I dream surreal and lucidly
Thundercloud Repairian 