Poem 40 – Jazz with Zora

February 9, 2021 Vanessa ShieldsLeave a comment

Jazz with ZoraFor Zora Neale Hurston Zora takes me to The New World Cabaret in Harlem.We treat it like the meal that it is, murmur excitedlyour plans to gorge ourselves on the orchestra’s specials. We are plunged in the mighty supping of temptoe-tapping & trumpet. It fuses our light togetherin a fury of indulgence. I… Continue reading Poem 40 – Jazz with Zora

On Writing

Poem 37 – I Dare You

February 6, 2021 Vanessa Shields2 Comments

I Dare You Dizzybusy bebop makerproud prankstermystic mentorkind kidnapper ofPhil Woods (1956) Dizzyhis cheeks proclamationsto the power of breathbursting barrierson the trumpet’s slippery soul Dizzyhis fingers testamentsto the deliverance ofdivine demonstrations of complex syncopationtrigger happyvalve vivaciousharmonious chopsthat lick embersinto fast jiving flames Dizzyjust listen: Salt peanutsCubana Be-Cubana BopManteca Listen hard &try not to moveI dare you be moved… Continue reading Poem 37 – I Dare You

On Writing

Poem 29 – Golden

January 29, 2021 Vanessa Shields2 Comments

Golden friday morning s l i d einto the wet mouth of trumpet jazzclose my eyesblow a kiss to the smooth blue skynod to the sun shining her golden best feel my heart D R I Pto my hipfor today’sride

Events · Look At Her · My Book · On Writing · Poetry · Publishing · Readings · Writing Life

LOOK AT HER BOOK LAUNCH IS TOMORROW!

September 21, 2016 Vanessa Shields4 Comments

I'm literally shakin' in my shoes, people! I can't believe that my book launch is TOMORROW. After all the writing, editing, planning and organizing...the big day is TOMORROW. I will be ready. I will be nervous. I will have a zoo of animals in my belly. I will feel like puking all day. And then… Continue reading LOOK AT HER BOOK LAUNCH IS TOMORROW!