Lately I have realized that my Friend Poetry has been
a constant throughout my adult life since I wrote that
first poem there in the Baillieu Library at the University
of Melbourne back in 1968! And not only poetry! Plenty
of writing for myself and to explain my failures, omissions
and weaknesses. Trying to identify why things turned out
the way they did. And as my writings occurred at night more
often than not, I developed a sixth sense in appreciating
the calm of the night in a busy family household. Then I also
began to publish a few poems in the Italian Club University
magazine and later in a literary page of a couple of the local
Italian Language Newspapers and in schools. My writings
never stopped !And I did not have it looked at professionally.
This writing was there for me! At times in my early years
I would bother my mamma or sisters to listen to the occasional
poem that I had written. Later on I would do this with my wife
Nella. My writing was always about what happened or a reaction
to what was happening around me! The years rolled by and I
continued to write even when I was very busy! Especially then!
My writing also improved and I continued to take every opportunity
to write cards for birthdays and other Social or Festive occasions.
My Friend Poetry was my 'confidante', but I did not allow myself
the luxury of pouring my feelings onto paper knowing that
the written word is like going to meet your friends in a piazza.
My Friend Poetry was a true companion without getting
so close to it that it could hurt my feelings or those of others.
Keeping a balanced view, saying just enough to share our
human side and personality. My friend poetry was present
at Births, Baptisms, Communions, Weddings, all Festive
occasions, Birthdays, travel. It also lead me to appreciate
photography... a picture is worth a thousand words, then
footage and videos, TV programs and now online and internet...
My Friend poetry was a companion when I travelled with Nella,
when she was sick and went to Eternal Life... Then My Friend
Poetry gave me a hand in developing a new friendship with my
immediate environment. Silvana arrived. So I began the journey
of following close those activities and meetings that we shared over
many months. My Friend Poetry and my friend Silvana have fused
into this Sunset Love episodes and book. Of course literary convention
requires that this book is also a work of fiction for all readers to enjoy.
Sunset Love it!
