Unveiling Black Liquorice On The Rocks: A Chapbook of Bittersweet Verse

Announcing the newly anticipated poetry chapbook, Black Liquorice On The Rocks, published by Bottlecap Press.

I'm thrilled to announce the release of my latest poetry chapbook, Black Liquorice On The Rocks!

Black Liquorice On The Rocks delves into the complexities of love, loss, and memory with a sharp and often unsettling edge. The poems explore these themes through vivid imagery and unexpected juxtapositions, much like the bitter taste of black licorice.

Some poems, like "Always A Devil, Never A God" and "The Tragedy Of Wanting More Than You Can Swallow," grapple with the pain of loss and betrayal.

Others, like "My Little Dirty Basketcase" and "A Sip Of Mulberry Wine," capture the bittersweet nostalgia of love and youthful memories.

Sharpness and Complexity

Black licorice is a strong-flavored candy, with a distinctive bitterness that some people find unpleasant. Similarly, the poems in the collection deal with harsh realities and complex emotions like grief, longing, and betrayal. The "on the rocks" part of the title reinforces this idea, suggesting the poems are served "straight up" without sugarcoating.

Unexpectedness and Juxtaposition

Black licorice is a unique flavor that combines sweetness with bitterness. Likewise, the poems often present surprising imagery and unexpected connections between ideas. This reflects the poems' exploration of the multifaceted nature of human experience, where joy and sorrow, love and loss, can coexist.

Lingering Impact

Black licorice is a flavor that lingers on the tongue long after it's consumed. Similarly, the poems explore experiences that leave a lasting impression on the reader, prompting reflection and emotional resonance.

Darkness and Bittersweetness

Black licorice is a dark candy, and the color black is often associated with darkness, sadness, and mystery. The poems explore the darker aspects of life, but they also offer moments of beauty and sweetness, creating a bittersweet emotional experience for the reader.

Whether you're a long-standing fan of my poetry or just starting to explore my poetry, Black Liquorice On The Rocks will offer…

A Thought-Provoking Journey

The poems will take readers on a journey through the complexities of human emotions, challenging them to confront difficult topics and reflect on their own experiences.

A Fresh Perspective

The unexpected imagery and surprising connections found in the poems can offer readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes, helping them see the world in a new light.

A Cathartic Experience

By exploring the darker sides of life, the poems may provide readers with a space to process their own emotions and find catharsis in shared experiences.

A Lingering Beauty

While the poems delve into challenging topics, they also offer moments of tenderness, unexpected humor, and a bittersweet beauty that stays with the reader long after the last line is read.

Here are some additional details about the chapbook…

• You can find a captivating excerpt from one of the poems in the collection below.

• The chapbook is available for purchase from Bottlecap Press and signature copies are available here (US Only).
  Note: I highly recommend international buyers to order a digital copy through Bottlecap Press as the international shipping rates are extreme.

• I would love for you to embark on this poetic journey with me. Grab your copy today and share your thoughts!

That tequila sunrise over Valencia was made

from the same citrus tears

which make up the rinds of cirrus

burning at the edges of the sun's dipping glow.