I received this stunning new journal, The Storms, in the mail a couple of days ago. I do mean stunning. It is really beautiful with thick pages, color artwork–and of course, amazing poetry. I am Sooooo excited to have a poem in this inaugural issue!
It feels extra special because I knew editor-in-chief Damien B Donnelly “way back when”–when he and I used to write poems to Jane Dougherty’s prompts. (Jane also has a poem in this issue). Since then, Damien has published his debut poetry collection, Eat the Storms, is the host of the popular Eat the Storms podcast, and has published other collections. Yeah, he’s poet rock star. 😏 Gaynor Kane, who is a sparkling poet and artist and the author of Venus in Pink Marble and the new collection, Eight Types of Love, (in my reading queue) was the sub-editor. I loved the Belfast photos and paintings that Gaynor contributed for Paul Brookes’ ekphrastic challenge this past April. Congratulations to both of you for all your hard work and effort. You’ve truly created a work of art. 💙
Yesterday and today: Merril's historical musings 
how beautiful
It really is, Beth. I was saying to someone it’s like a book you’d buy in a museum shop.
That is beautiful, congratulations, well deserved dear poetess.
Thank you very much! 😊
Congratulations, on your inclusion in the inaugural issue The Storms, Merril! I always enjoy reading books (or magazines) that are aesthetically pleasing as physical objects. It adds something extra to the reading experience.
Thank you, Liz.
I think you’re right. Probably one reason why I like physical books so much more than e-books. And this one really is lovely.
You’re welcome, Merril.
This is fantastic! Congratulations to Damien B Donnelly and Gaynor Kane! This publication sound amazing.
Merril, congrats to you! It seems wherever & whenever poetry submissions are needed, you are a go to poet! YAY!!!!!🌟🎉💥
Thank you so much, Resa! 💙😊
Wonderful, Merril. I’m so happy for Damien, too. (K)
Thank you, Kerfe!
Congratulations. I love the cover.
Thank you! The cover art is by Damien! It’s beautiful!
Congratulations, Merril! Such a beautiful cover!
Thank you, Jill. It really is. The artwork is by Damien. 💙
The book is lovely and in a way, a miracle. These days I appreciate how challenging it is to publish a beautiful book of poems – because of the expense, and because poetry is seen as something “extra,” instead of the necessity poems really are these days.
Yes, you are right, Pam. It is very expensive to publish anything. Damien received funding from Irish Arts Councils, which helped to make this publication possible.
Congratulations Merril. The cover is STUNNING! 💖💖
Thank you so much, Cindy! Damien does everything beautifully!
I can tell.. ! You’re so welcome! 👏👏👏💖
😊💙
Congratulations, Merril – it looks beautiful!
Thank you, Ingrid. It really is a beautiful book.