An Anthology of Pacific Northwest Poetry, Prose and Art

About the Book

The purpose of the anthology, in our view, is to bring together in one book the contributions of young and old, of diverse heritage and background; a treasure trove of life experience for all to share in. We have included short stories, poetry and art from several people in the Northwest area, ranging from a 12-year-old girl to a man 86years of age. Many names are familiar; some are unknown but they all contribute to the richness that is our region — the Northwest.

About the Author

I was born and raised in Newport News, Virginia, but came to make my home in Portland, Oregon, in the summer of 1967. There was, and still is, a lively regional arts community, and I soon became immersed in local theater production and other cultural events.

In 1972, I joined the staff of Revue magazine at Portland State University. At the time, the magazine had only published the works of white writers, but the times were definitely changing. I was told specifically to seek poetry and prose by people of color, university students in particular.

It was a fascinating and rewarding assignment and, in many respects, it started me on the journey that has been my life ever since. I developed a strong appreciation for the artistic works of young African-Americans, Native Americans, Asians, and Latin Americans, among others.

In 1979, I moved back east to study at Morgan State University, where I received a Bachelor's degree in African-American culture and history. After two years of graduate studies at Cornell University's Africana Studies and Research Center, and more studies at State University of New York at Cortland, I returned to the Pacific Northwest in 1991.

Based on my studies, I decided to merge my two great loves--the performing arts and African-American culture--by forming Flooney's Theater Company. During my years in the arts community, I met so many talented artists that I eventually decided I should again seek to publish their works. I wanted to include all age groups, races, sexes, and cultural backgrounds: the whole rainbow.

The one common thread is that they are all linked to the Pacific Northwest in some way. And it occurred to me that that, in itself, is a special theme--one worthy of its own attention.

The purpose of this anthology is to provide a showcase for the diversity of the Pacific Northwest. This collection of amateur and professional art, poetry, and prose was created by many unique people I have had the pleasure to meet while living in the Pacific Northwest. Some names may be familiar, others will be new to you, but they all contribute to the richness of our special part of the world.

Included are students, professors, Buddhists, Jews, Christians, Muslims, Africans (South and West), Chinese-Americans, Japanese, European-Americans, Native Americans, Latin Americans and Armenians, to name a few. Contributors range in age from 12 years old to 86 years young. Their work represents the many stages and degrees of the artistic path people walk.

It gives me great pleasure to be a conduit for their creativity. I truly hope that you enjoy discovering their work as much as I have. Enjoy.