It is that time of year again, the long evenings, the magic time. The witching hour is coming. The gap between the worlds closes and the dead walk among us – so they say.
So to get in the mood read some tales of spirits, of the unquiet dead crying out, angry, lonely or simply confused.
Thirteen Tales: A collection of short stories concerning ghosts. Some are traditional ghost stories in the tradition of M.R. James and Edgar Allan Poe. Others are not. Some scare, some are fun. Some play with the concept of a ghost. There are ghosts who are out for revenge and the living avenging the spirits that curse them.
Through glasses Through windows Through windscreens Through the artificial glare of the plasma screen Through a camera’s lense Filtered life Protecting us From rain and wind And Real steel Real cold Real hot blood Real
Resistance is futile So they say Sometimes It certainly feels that way But from resistance We get the heat Without which We would be Incomplete Heat is energy That turns into action Action and reaction The turning of the engine of Revolution
There is a storm coming What do we do? Plant daffodils and discuss Have bake-offs Write poetry Document and photograph So at least the survivors of the storm Will have An accurate record Of the things we did And did not do
When the last heartbeat of the last child Has faded into silence The mighty universe Will not care Which is a Shame For There Is nothing That can magnify Its vast magnificence More than the wonder Reflected in the shine of a child’s curious eye
On a dark peak In a lofty castle tower Firelight glints on gold The flames are the consummation Of a million dreams The gold is the gifts That the few exchange As they gather To sharpen their swords Hone their skills Readying To chase away the wolves Release the hounds And take control Of the docile cattle herds
Soon They will realise That their spin Their media hype Is failing Now One has come To threaten Their way of life Not ours As the spin machines spews But theirs Their way of life Of easy deception and greed Of spinning tales of woe Cutting and taxing While smirking with contempt And lining their pockets With our aid Let’s see What happens When they realise The spin No longer works
A drowned boy Drawn from the sea Fled from death to death Burns in our minds Burns in our hearts Fans the flames of passion Just before The call to war
We were the wise ones. Wandering in from all over the world. High on the haze of laughter and drink. Occasional lovers, always just friends. And game after game we polished our views.
Where did it go? That time of the silliness, the time of the laughs. Was it all crushed by the weight on our hearts? Of life, of the world that we woke to and joined.
Flight or fight They say But that first day The looming shadow The bully I was pinned Couldn’t run Couldn’t fight Jellified with fear Neither response available
For many years That shadow stalked me Until one day I fought And it fled
A world of control and a fight for freedom. Experience ‘Mankind Limited’. #Revolution #DystopianNovel
Marc trudged through life, just another cog in the machine, burdened by the relentless demands to conform, succeed, or be crushed by failure. But deep down, he knew something was terribly wrong. The questions that gnawed at his soul grew into a storm of doubt until they finally shattered his fragile sanity.
Driven by a newfound defiance, Marc embarks on a dangerous journey, leading him to three others who share his thirst for answers. Together, they unravel a conspiracy that threatens to brand them as terrorists, forcing them to flee for their lives.
As Marc navigates a treacherous path filled with love, heartbreak, hope, and despair, he uncovers whispers of an ancient and powerful secret that could change everything he knows—if he can survive long enough to unlock it.
Mankind Limited is a gripping tale of rebellion, adventure, and the search for truth in a world determined to keep it hidden.
Journey through the darkness of unfulfilled dreams with ‘The Well of Sunken Dreams.’ These poems offer a raw and honest reflection on the harsh realities of existence. #Poetry #Journey”
Embark on a Dark Journey with This Poetry Collection
As a middle-aged man, I find myself doing the things typical of someone my age—catching up with friends over a pint, reminiscing about the past, and lamenting the present. Like many of us, we look back fondly, convinced that things were better, and wonder what today’s youth are missing.
But out of these conversations emerged a stark realization, one that Mark Fisher articulated so chillingly in Capitalist Realism: Is There No Alternative?—we are a generation that was sold a dream, a promise that if we worked hard and stayed the course, success would follow. And so, we did. We toiled, poured our blood, sweat, and tears into making others rich, generating profits that were never ours.
Yet here we are, still struggling, still fighting against a tide that threatens to pull us under with every passing day. The cost of living climbs higher, and the shadow of homelessness looms ever closer. The dream we were sold was a lie, and we are left with the bitter taste of reality.
This collection of poems is my response to that lie—a reflection on the darker aspects of modern life. Unlike my previous works, where I’ve tried to find a balance with optimism, this collection delves deep into the shadows. This is my grunge phase, a raw and unfiltered exploration of a world gone awry.
Inside, you’ll find pieces that have never been published before, thoughts that have lingered in the dark corners of my mind, now brought to light.
So, put on your favourite goth tunes, and join me on this journey into the depths of sunken dreams. Embrace the darkness, and find solace in knowing that you are not alone in feeling the weight of a world that promised so much and delivered so little.
My new poetry collection offers 365 moments of contemplation. Explore a variety of forms and emotions, and let each poem brighten your day. #PoetryCollection #DailyPoems
Dive into a vibrant world of poetry with 365 pieces crafted from dreams and emotions, each one a daily gift for an entire year. This collection features an array of forms including haiku, sonnets, katauta, lanturnes, and free verse, each poem reflecting the myriad moods of life. Experience the ebb and flow of sadness and grief, joy and love, captured in every verse.
Let these poems be a bright spot in your day, offering a serene moment of reflection amidst the chaos of life. Embrace the opportunity to pause, contemplate, and see the world through a different lens.
Not all ghost stories are the same. In “Thirteen Tales About Ghosts,” you’ll meet spirits that bring peace, joy, and even dread. Are you ready to explore the unknown? #Paranormal #GhostlyTales
Including:
Suspense
Revenge can be patient. And it can come at the most unexpected time. Old crimes, suppressed and twisted come back to haunt a monster. A woman wronged returns from the grave with chilling intent.
A Haunting Collection: Ghost Stories to Chill and Delight
Dive into a captivating collection of ghost stories that will take you on a journey through the eerie and the whimsical. Some tales pay homage to the classic ghost story traditions of M.R. James and Edgar Allan Poe, delivering spine-chilling scares. Others take a different approach, blending fun and intrigue with the supernatural.
Within these pages, you’ll encounter vengeful spirits seeking retribution and living characters determined to avenge the ghosts that haunt them. Some stories will make you shiver, while others will bring a smile to your face. This collection also plays with the very concept of what a ghost can be, offering fresh and imaginative takes on the spectral realm.
Prepare yourself for a variety of ghostly encounters that will both haunt and entertain you. Whether you crave classic scares or enjoy a playful twist on the supernatural, this collection has something for every ghost story enthusiast.
Slow down and savour the depth of my fantasy poetry collection. Each long poem is a story that unfolds with time and attention. #FantasyPoetry #LiteraryDepth
The Tales of the Star Dancer
Dive into a world where imagination knows no bounds with this enchanting poem. Unlike the dark and heavy themes often found in modern poetry, this piece offers a refreshing and whimsical escape. Its unique format, characterised by twinned verses, adds an intriguing structure without confining the magic within.
This poem is a joyous flight of fantasy, a celebration of magic and wonder. It’s a playful journey through a world where anything is possible, where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, and where every line invites you to let your imagination soar.
As you read, you’ll find yourself swept away by the sheer fun and freedom of the verses. The playful rhythm and enchanting imagery will transport you to a realm where reality fades, and the fantastical reigns supreme. It’s a delightful reminder of the joy that comes from letting go and simply enjoying the ride.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of poetry or just looking for a lighthearted read, this poem is sure to captivate your heart and imagination. It’s a perfect antidote to the stresses of everyday life, offering a moment of pure, unadulterated fun.
Don’t miss out on this charming escape into a world of fantasy and magic. Embrace the whimsical, the magical, and the lighthearted with this delightful poem. Get your copy today and let your imagination run wild!
Embrace the Challenge: A Collection of Poems for the Patient Reader
In an era of instant gratification and fleeting attention spans, I’ve chosen to go against the grain, offering a collection that embraces both length and depth.
The poems in this collection span a long period and were crafted for diverse purposes. They vary in theme and style, but they share two key characteristics: they are lengthy and they present challenges. Each poem challenged me to maintain a high quality of writing over an extended length while adhering to strict forms, all the while telling a compelling story. They also present a challenge to you, the reader: to set aside the rush of everyday life, to resist the urge to hurry, and to take the time to immerse yourself in a more substantial reading experience.
Such an effort deserves a reward. These poems are not meant to be quick fixes or one-time reads. If you invest your time and attention, you will find a lasting payoff. Whether through contemplation of the themes and stories or through revisiting and rereading, discovering new layers and insights with each read, these poems offer a depth of content that extends beyond mere quantity.
So, I invite you to accept this challenge. Slow down, take your time, and dive deep into these poems. Allow them to unfold their richness and provide you with a meaningful and enduring experience.
Pressure breaks them, revolution remakes them. Join the journey in ‘Mankind Limited’. #DystopianNovel #MankindLimited
Unleash the Revolution: A Gripping Tale of Resistance and Revelation
In a world where control and surveillance dictate every aspect of life, four individuals find themselves at a breaking point. But instead of succumbing to the oppressive regime, they shatter the walls of deceit and propaganda, stepping boldly into a realm of revolution.
Each character, in their own unique way, vows to dismantle the established order. Their journey is fraught with peril, as they face formidable forces—both from the state and from within their own minds. As their paths intertwine, they traverse a dangerous road, leading to the discovery of an ancient secret that could change everything.
This compelling narrative delves deep into the human spirit under relentless pressure, revealing how different people respond to the crushing weight of everyday oppression. It’s a story of breaking down and rebuilding, of rebellion driven by diverse motivations and methods.
On another level, this book offers a profound critique of capitalism and free markets, exposing their darker sides. It challenges us to consider whether humanity has doomed itself or if we still possess the strength to divert from the perilous path we’ve set for our society.
Join these four rebels on a gripping journey of resistance, revelation, and the fight for a better future. Get your copy today and discover if the human race can still find hope amid the chaos.
The robin in his nest Perched in the naked branches Of the blasted tree Three winds blown Over the black, sore plain Wisps of smoke rise And stings his eyes Faint embers glow All around The hot storm has howled Now the beast is grounded Never to rise again A hard winter will fall The nest will freeze No more tears Will wet the plain
Find a moment of peace in your busy day with my collection of 365 poems. From joy to sorrow, each poem is a reflection of life’s many moods. #Poetry #DailyInspiration
Uncover the magic of poetry with our latest collection! This anthology features 365 poems, each crafted with dreams and deep emotions, published daily over a year. Experience a variety of forms—haikus, sonnets, katautas, lanturnes, and free form—that capture a wide range of moods and reflections.
Each poem offers a moment of contemplation, a brief escape from the stress of everyday life. With themes of sadness, joy, love, and grief, these poems provide a touch of inspiration and a fresh perspective.
Invest in this collection to enrich your daily routine and find beauty in every day. Dive into the rhythm of poetry and let it transform your world. Don’t miss out—get your copy today!
Amber brown bristles Fletched true Sighted On the smooth straight shaft Knocked Creak of wood And leather Tense flesh Strength of arm Years Of hard work Hard life Peaked In tense flesh Aimed
Deep russet red Undulating tight Over perfect form Moving with surety Strength and grace Slender neck Proud eyes High points Antlers spectacular
Slow high-speed Flight True Through high trunks Ancient towers Sturdy and rough Flicking leaves Pungent smell Of spilt sap Over lazy ferns
Struck Sunk deep In perfect flesh Deep russet red Covered in bright Fresh crimson Hunter Has hunted
Dusk Deep red sky Flecked with sparks Orange Embers fly On aroma Of roasted flesh Venison Consumed Hunter sated For now
Started awake Cold Stone and straw Shit and piss And chains A dream Of a memory Despite all A happy dream Amidst horror And darkness
Weakness Flesh wasted In forgotten depths Waiting For nothing Time drips Away Into nothing Sodden straw
Stronger arms Clad in chain Dragged from darkness Down cold Stone corridors Into light Hammering eyes Screams and shouts Hammering ears
Then rope And wood Strong scent Of wet rope Rough against Weak neck And wood Creaking underfoot Screams and jeers A clunk Freedom from weight From the wait Exhilaration Then……
Discover the unexpected in “Thirteen Tales About Ghosts.” Not all spirits are vengeful; some lead to joy and peace. But not all. Are you brave enough to find out? #GhostStories #SpookyReads
Discover the unexpected in “Thirteen Ghostly Tales” – a collection that goes beyond traditional ghost stories. Encounter vengeful spirits, sorrowful phantoms, and playful spectres reliving their joyous pasts. Each story leads the haunted to different fates – some find peace and joy, while others are taken down darker, inescapable paths.
Dive into these hauntingly diverse tales, but be warned – don’t get too comfortable. Embrace the eerie and the extraordinary with “Thirteen Ghostly Tales.”
I have lost my way Forgotten how to play This game Fury are my bones Propping up flesh Seeking the earth With groans So Fury keeps me going Until it is doused
There’s a fire in the mist Down in the green sleepy valley There’s a fire in the mist A cherry glow shrouded by grey Growing If it grows much more It will burn off the grey sleepy tendrils of morning And lay waste to the trees
Take a break from the hurried pace of life and immerse yourself in my fantasy poetry collection. Each poem is a story that unfolds with time and attention. #PoetryCollection #FantasyWorlds
Including
Consciousness Cubed
An experimental poem that follows a strict but simple mathematical pattern. The challenge to myself here was to constrain myself by the rules I adopted – i.e. First section is one verse, one line, one syllable. The second section is two verses, each two lines long and each line two syllables. And so on.
Within that constraint, I had no story, plan or any idea of where I would go. It was to be a stream of consciousness. My thoughts were free to wander only confined and channeled by the form I had imposed on them. Hence the title.
In an age of instant gratification and short attention spans, I decided to defy the trend by offering something with both greater length and depth.
The poems in this collection were written over an extended period for various purposes. They are diverse, lengthy, and each represents a significant challenge. Every poem tested my ability to maintain high-quality writing over a long duration and within strict formal constraints while still telling a compelling story. They also pose a challenge to the reader, inviting you to escape the relentless rush of daily life and take the time to truly absorb each piece.
Such effort deserves a reward. These poems are not meant for a quick fix. If readers invest their time and effort, they should find ongoing value, whether through contemplation of what they’ve read or by revisiting and discovering new insights with each reading. My final challenge was to provide this depth of content, ensuring that it offers more than just quantity.
In a world where every aspect of life is meticulously controlled and measured, four individuals find themselves at a breaking point. But instead of succumbing to the oppression, they shatter the walls of deceit and propaganda, stepping into a realm of revolution.
Each of them, in their unique way, commits to overthrowing the established order. Their journey is fraught with obstacles, from state forces to their own self-doubt. As their paths converge, they embark on a perilous road that leads to the discovery of an ancient secret.
On one level, this story delves into how different people react to the relentless pressure of everyday oppression. It examines their journeys as they are broken and rebuilt, exploring their motivations and methods of rebellion.
On another level, it critiques the darker side of capitalism and free markets, questioning whether these systems have driven us away from the evolutionary advantages that once made us dominant. It challenges us to consider whether humanity has doomed itself or still has the potential to break free from the rigid path society has imposed.
Colours speak louder than words! Discover my latest poetry collection, where each piece is inspired by a different hue, reflecting the myriad shades of life. #Poetry #ColourfulVerses
While organizing my poetry collection, I aimed to compile a selection of new, largely unpublished works. However, I discovered a recurring theme: an intrinsic connection to colours in my poem titles and content. Inspired by this realization, I decided to create a second collection centred around the theme of colour. This anthology captures a spectrum of thoughts and moments, reflecting on the infinite hues and variety of our universe.
I am excited to present this vibrant collection to you. Dive into a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences, all beautifully intertwined with the essence of colour.
Reflect on the unfulfilled dreams and daily battles with this poignant poetry collection. #MiddleAge #PoeticTruths
Being a middle-aged aged man – I do middle-aged man things. Sometimes. One is meeting with my middle-aged friend and getting nostalgic over a pint or two of beer.
Like many others.
We contemplate how things were better, how the youth of today are missing out on what he had.
Out of these conversations came a realisation, one that we found was articulated with frightening clarity by Mark Fisher in “Capitalist Realism, Is there No Alternative”. He makes the observation that we are of a generation that was sold a dream, a dream that did not come true. We were told that if we worked hard, and dedicated ourselves we would do well.
Well we did, work hard, for many years. Blood sweat and tears making our employees successful, generating profit and success.
But not for us. We still struggle in the day to day reality. We fight the rising cost of living and the shadow that were a few bad weeks away from homelessness or worse.
The dreams was a lie. And there is nothing left we can do about it.
This collection of poems is a reflection of my thoughts about this and other darker aspects of modern life. In my other collections I like to balance this side of my ruminations with more optimistic explorations. This did not seem appropriate here. This is my equivalent of a grunge phase.
It also contains largely previously unpublished works that have not appeared anywhere else.
So, stick on those goth tunes and wallow in the well of sunken dreams.
Embark on a poetic journey of 365 pieces, each a unique expression born from dreams and emotions. Spanning diverse forms like haiku, sonnets, and free verse, they mirror my daily mood—ranging from sadness to joy, grief to love.
Amid life’s chaos, these poems offer a brief respite, inviting readers to pause and view the world through a new lens. Join me in discovering solace and reflection within the lines of each verse.
A collection of short stories concerning ghosts. Some are traditional ghost stories in the tradition of M.R. James and Edgar Allan Poe. Other are not. Some scare, some are fun. Some play with the concept of a ghost. There are ghosts who are out for revenge and the living avenging the spirits that curse them.
Ideal for sitting around a campfire and late at night under the covers. Or maybe not if the stories themselves are any guide.
A paperback version is now available for those who prefer the feel of the paper while huddling by the fire – on your own – in the dark – with that noise behind you……
Scott Andrew Bailey - Author 