There’s a magic in poetry that lingers long after the last word. In “The Well of Sunken Dreams“, I’ve aimed to craft poems that stay with you, echoing back as whispers from deep within. It’s an exploration of poetry as an experience—a dance between reader and verse. I hope each line will spark reflection and resonance, inviting you to come back and find new meaning each time. Are you ready to let these words sink into your thoughts?
“The Well of Sunken Dreams” is a collection inspired by what lies beyond the ordinary. Each poem invites the reader to ponder the unseen—the untold stories of our hearts, minds, and dreams. These poems traverse themes of longing, nostalgia, and the eerie beauty of the unknown. Are you curious to explore the boundaries between reality and reverie? This collection might be exactly what you’re searching for.
In a world of chaos, poetry offers a sanctuary—a place where emotions find depth and meaning. “The Well of Sunken Dreams” isn’t just a poetry collection; it’s an invitation to dive beneath the surface, where words unlock hidden worlds. Every poem in this collection opens a portal to the landscapes of introspection, love, loss, and mystery. If you’re looking for poetry that resonates with your deepest emotions, I invite you to take a dip into these waters and explore. What dreams might you unearth?
Sleek and seductive
A scent that teases and tempts
The fried egg sizzles
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #108 Sizzle&Sleek
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
Cherry petals float
On the tumbling mountain streams
Kingfishers heart beats
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #120 Heart&Petals
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
Albatross hovers
High over surf scattered sand
All will pass in time
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #113 Beach&Time
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
Flower of the vale
Sings to the sky in her joy
Spirits often do
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #106 Sing&Flower
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
As the journey grows
On, from moment to moment
We feel time passing
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #105-Time&Grow
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
Lightning flash charges
The rain drenched primordial dawn
A spark of life stirs
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #96 Lightning&Rain
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
A silk-lined invite
Lures the hedonist inward
Down the dragon’s jaws
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #95 Dragon&Invite
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
Pearls of wisdom fade
Becomes as hard as diamond
Implacable thought
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #94 Diamonds&Pearls
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
The vale veiled in mist
Treetops fray misty tendrils
Sunlight melts it down
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #91 Fray&Veiled
#Ronovan #Writes #Haiku #Challenge
Intent on life’s path
We do not see the meadow’s
Beauty all around
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #92 Life&Path
#Ronovan Writes Haiku Challenge
See the sunlight play
In every dancing drop
A laughing shower
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #89 Shower&Play
#Ronovan #Writes #Haiku #Challenge
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
In response to the daily prompt Resist
#DailyPrompt
Where the wild wood weaves
And the willow weeps
Where the deep dark dwells
And the savage sunlight sleeps
Where the serpents writhe
Around a blood-red spear
Where the wicked glance
Then turn away in fear
Where children’s happy sighs
Are swallowed in the night
Never really here
Just memory’s separate sight
Where my heart does plunge
In the empty space of dreams
Where vision fades from eyes
And air congeals with screams
Where ancient stone walls fall
Where poets finally cease
Cease.
There are 164,889 charities in the UK
164,889 ways
The government is failing in its duties
164,889 ways
The people are not
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
By Scott Bailey © 2015
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
We don’t understand
The fight between them and us
There is only us
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
By Scott Bailey © 2015
A warming curry
A red beer in a tall glass
And Only Connect
Shacks stacked
Corrugated walls
Tetering high
Rambling high
Shambling streets
Congested flesh
Diluted souls
Wasted lives
One hundred
Million dollars
Empty rooms
Cloudy palace
Red sky, grey smoke high.
Silver tear, deep blue cloud.
Black and White.
Golden smile.
Flint and mortar, tower high.
Radio waves, beamed away.
Shifting sound, dusty leaves.
White smile.
Sweet scent, soft white.
Blue sight, twinkling bright.
Red rose, silky smooth.
Open smile.
White mount, pearl touch.
Flowing gold, windswept.
Red shine, white page.
Welcome smile.
Golden Day, blue sky.
Warm day, ever long.
Shining heart, echoes soft.
Pure smile.
Beaten
Blind numb
Afraid
To dream
Without sleep
Broken
Blind dumb
Weary
Time worn
Plodding
This is my tithe
The part of my life
That I give to my lord
To survive
My uses are his
My flesh and my blood
So I am here
On this field
Shoulder to shoulder
With my fellow men
Shields edge to edge
Spears raised
For the right to go on
Feed my wife and my son
To stave hunger away
One more year
Death faces us down
With it’s bloodstained gown
As the line ahead draws
Ever closer
The enemy jeers
Clashing their spears
Moving their wall
Close to ours
And I see in their eyes
They are bound by their tithes
To kill for their lord
Just like me
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.
In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Fight or Flight.”
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
In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Audience of One.”
By Scott Bailey © 2014
To my younger self
Don’t be so bloody afraid
Have fun and prosper
In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “In Good Faith.”
In good faith they took
Their covenant most holy
Is killing good faith!?
In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Oasis.”
A storm is brewing
Clouds gather
Crowds coalesce
Grief and anger
Answer hate
Where’s my oasis
Of peace
Love is warm while truth
Is cold. The endless battle
Shakes the human world
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.
Taunting thunder
Bring on the storm
Rail against the rain
Scream at the sea’s form
But the storm rages on
The rain lashes skin
The sea eats the land
And sweeps on in
Still and steadfastly
Stands the ancient oak
Stretched beneath the sun
Or a frosty cloak
Weathers every storm
Watching briefer lives
Rushing by at work
Like bees in hives
Yet even this strong trunk
Well one day bend and break
As time drinks strength
A thirst it cannot slake
So rail on against the rain
Rage against the storm
Swim against the tide
While blood still runs warm
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
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!
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.
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
In response to the daily prompt Nest
#DailyPrompt #iamwriting
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……
Adrenaline fuels
The pounding pulse of the hunt
That only blood sates
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
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.
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.
A golden charm hangs
Twisted tear between her breasts
Hungry wolves look on
In response to RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #75
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.
Scott Andrew Bailey - Author 