Discover the Depths: ‘The Well of Sunken Dreams’

What lies beneath the surface of our waking lives? What secrets does the unconscious hold? These are the questions I explore in my poetry collection, The Well of Sunken Dreams. Writing this collection has been a journey through verses and a descent into the layers of human emotion, memory, and imagination.

Each poem in this collection represents a fragment of a greater whole, a shard of a mirror reflecting dreams both vivid and forgotten. Through these words, I’ve delved into universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, while striving to offer unique perspectives that challenge and inspire readers.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

Why I Wrote This Collection

In a world dominated by fast-paced content and fleeting moments, I wanted to create something that invites readers to pause and reflect. The Well of Sunken Dreams isn’t meant to be hurried through; it’s designed to linger, to be reread, and to offer new discoveries with each visit.

My goal was to craft poetry that feels both accessible and profound, connecting deeply personal themes with universal resonance. For anyone seeking an emotional or intellectual escape, I hope this collection becomes a source of inspiration.

Highlights from the Collection

While every poem holds its own meaning, here are some of the aspects I’m particularly proud of:

  • Atmospheric Imagery: I aimed to create vivid pictures with my words, transporting readers to dreamscapes and the shadowy corners of memory.
  • Emotional Depth: These poems come from a raw and unfiltered place, offering moments of catharsis and connection.
  • Timeless Themes: From love and longing to identity and mortality, this collection touches on ideas that have always fascinated me and, I believe, resonate with us all.

Sharing My Journey

Writing The Well of Sunken Dreams has been one of the most rewarding creative experiences of my life. Through my website, scottandrewbailey.com, I’ve shared this collection and other works that reflect my passion for exploring the depths of the human experience.

An Invitation to Dive In

For me, poetry isn’t just about words on a page; it’s about the emotions and thoughts they evoke in the reader. With The Well of Sunken Dreams, I invite you to join me in exploring a world shaped by imagination and insight.

Are you ready to take the plunge? Visit scottandrewbailey.com to order your copy today and let yourself sink into the depths of my dreams.

The People We Left Behind

The world has changed and that change has been for the better. People who were hidden are now seen. Inclusion is the way forward and we embrace all.

But some have been forgotten. Worse they have been labelled the instigators of the old ways, the bad ways. So they have been left behind – tarred with the brush of a small, powerful group of oppressors.

This collection partly examines this issue. It is not a complaint, not a wish for the old ways to return, but a way to start the conversation about what it means in the modern world to be white, male and middle-aged and how we need to come together with the rest of society again.

On another level, “The Well of Sunken Dreams” is a look at the betrayal of dreams that everyone of all creeds, sexes and colours feels these days. It asks what happened to the dreams we were promised? 

Pick up a copy – join the conversation no one is having.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

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.

Uncovering the Inspiration Behind “The Well of Sunken Dreams”

Behind every poem in “The Well of Sunken Dreams” lies a story, an image, or an idea that has haunted me. Inspiration comes in unexpected forms: fragments of dreams, the fleeting beauty of nature, the aching feeling of memories, and the shadowed corners of the imagination. This collection is as much a reflection of my own inner world as it is an offering to you, the reader, to see where it leads you. If you’re intrigued by the source of inspiration, step into “The Well of Sunken Dreams” and see what stirs.


What Makes a Poem Enduring? Thoughts from “The Well of Sunken Dreams”

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


Themes of “The Well of Sunken Dreams”: What Lies Beneath

“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.

A Journey Beneath the Surface: Discover “The Well of Sunken Dreams”

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?


Reflections in later life

Reflect on the unfulfilled dreams and daily battles with this poignant poetry collection. #MiddleAge #PoeticTruths

The Well of Sunken Dreams

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.

Disillusioned


“Join me in unravelling the tangled web of our generation’s unfulfilled promises: a poetic exploration of disillusionment. #UnfulfilledPromises #PoeticJourney”

The Well of Sunken Dreams

As a middle-aged man, I often engage in typical middle-aged activities. One of those is meeting with my similarly aged friends and getting nostalgic over a pint or two of beer.

Like many others, we ponder how things seemed better in the past, believing the youth of today are missing out on what we had.

From these conversations emerged a realization, articulated with striking clarity by Mark Fisher in “Capitalist Realism, Is There No Alternative?”. He observed that our generation was sold a dream that never materialized. We were told that hard work and dedication would ensure our success.

We did work hard, for many years, pouring our blood, sweat, and tears into making our employers successful and profitable.

But not for ourselves. We continue to struggle with the daily reality of rising living costs and the ever-present threat of a few bad weeks away from homelessness or worse.

The dream was a lie. And there’s nothing left we can do about it.

This collection of poems reflects my thoughts on this and other darker aspects of modern life. Unlike my other collections, which balance these ruminations with more optimistic themes, this one does not. Consider it my equivalent of a grunge phase.

It also features largely unpublished works that haven’t appeared elsewhere.

So, put on those goth tunes and immerse yourself in the well of sunken dreams.

The Dream that was a lie

Reflect on the illusions of success and the harsh truths of modern existence with ‘The Well of Sunken Dreams.‘ These poems are a haunting reminder of the dreams that never came true. #Poetry #Illusions”

The Well of Sunken Dreeams

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.

New Poetry Collections Alert!

“The Well of Sunken Dreams”


Dive into the depths of reflection with this raw and poignant collection. Explore the disillusionment of a generation sold a dream that never materialized. Through unfiltered verses, uncover the truth of modern existence and confront the harsh realities of unfulfilled promises. This is poetry that speaks to the soul, offering solace in shared experiences and a glimpse into the shadows of our collective consciousness.

“The Colour of Dreams”


Experience the world through a kaleidoscope of emotions in this vibrant anthology. Journey through verses intricately woven with the hues of life, each colour painting a unique narrative on the canvas of existence. From the depths of sorrow to the heights of joy, explore the myriad shades that define our dreams and aspirations. Embark on this poetic odyssey where words and colours intertwine, inviting you to immerse yourself in the beauty of expression.

Both collections promise an unforgettable exploration of the human experience, inviting you to delve deeper into the realms of thought and imagination. Get ready to be captivated, inspired, and moved by the power of poetry.

Gothic Poems for Gothic Moods

Set the mood with goth tunes and immerse yourself in ‘The Well of Sunken Dreams.’ This collection is a haunting exploration of shattered dreams and lost hopes. #Poetry #Gothic”

Dive into the depths of reflection with this raw and poignant collection. Explore the disillusionment of a generation sold a dream that never materialized. Through unfiltered verses, uncover the truth of modern existence and confront the harsh realities of unfulfilled promises. This is poetry that speaks to the soul, offering solace in shared experiences and a glimpse into the shadows of our collective consciousness.

Grim Nostalgia

Let the waves of nostalgia and reflection wash over you with ‘The Well of Sunken Dreams.’ These poems offer a haunting exploration of the dreams that never came true. #Poetry #Nostalgia”

Waves of emotion

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.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

Welcome to my dreams

Slip away for a few hours, into other worlds – away from all the troubles of this one.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

Dive into the depths of reflection with this raw and poignant collection. Explore the disillusionment of a generation sold a dream that never materialized. Through unfiltered verses, uncover the truth of modern existence and confront the harsh realities of unfulfilled promises. This is poetry that speaks to the soul, offering solace in shared experiences and a glimpse into the shadows of our collective consciousness.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

The Colour of Dreams

Experience the world through a kaleidoscope of emotions in this vibrant anthology. Journey through verses intricately woven with the hues of life, each colour painting a unique narrative on the canvas of existence. From the depths of sorrow to the heights of joy, explore the myriad shades that define our dreams and aspirations. Embark on this poetic odyssey where words and colours intertwine, inviting you to immerse yourself in the beauty of expression.

The Colour of Dreams

Mankind Limited

Marc trudged on with life, marching in line with his fellow workers. Weighed down by the everyday burdens of life, the pressure to conform, to succeed or face destitution.

Yet he knew, in his heart that it was all wrong, the questions squirmed like fiery dragons in the pit of his heart, beneath his deepest darkest doubts.

Until they grew and burst his sanity, set him on a path of defiance and rebellion. A path that would cross three others – all like him seeking answers.

A path of danger and adventure that would see him marked as a terrorist and fleeing for his life. It would see him find love and heartbreak, hope and despair, Most of all, it would open his eye to the possibility of an ancient and powerful secret that might answer all his doubts and fears.

If he survived.

Thirteen Tales of Ghosts

As the title says – thirteen tales about ghosts. Yet, while ghosts feature in them all – not all are traditional ghost stories.

You will find the vengeful spirit but also the plaintiff one. The haunting message from the past and the playful spirits capturing the joy of their past lives.

Some of these visitors from beyond lead the haunted to peace and joy – others take them on much darker paths to places with no return.

Enjoy them – just don’t get too comfortable.

A Spring of Dreams

Three hundred and sixty-five poems in all shapes and sizes, sprung from dreams and emotion. Published day after day for a year. There are haiku, sonnets, katauta, lanturnes and many other forms – including free form.

The moods are as varied as the forms and often reflect my mood on the day. There is sadness and grief, joy and love. If nothing else – these can provide a small moment in everyone’s stressful lives to stop and contemplate the world in a different way.

Andervayne’s Dream and Other Poems

In these times of quick gratification and short attention spans, I decided to try and buck the trend and present something not only with greater length but also depth.

The poems in this collection were written over a long period and for different purposes. They are varied but they are all long. And they all represent challenges. Each was a challenge to myself, to sustain a quality of writing for a long period and within tight constraints of form while still telling a story. They also represent and challenge the reader. To throw off the pressure of everyday life, the pressure to hurry, hurry, hurry to take the time to read something, absorb it over time.

Such effort needs reward, these poems should not be a one-time quick fix. If the reader is going to put that effort in then there should be a payoff, they should be able to continue to get something from it afterwards. Whether that be from contemplation of what they have digested or from revisiting, rereading and seeing things they missed the first time around. So the final challenge to me was to provide this depth of content – not just quantity.


The Well of Sunken Dreams

As a man navigating the middle-aged realm, I often find myself indulging in quintessentially middle-aged activities. Occasionally, that involves meeting up with a buddy over a couple of pints, delving into the realms of nostalgia.

It’s a scene played out by many like us.

During these sessions, we ponder the past, lamenting its perceived superiority and bemoaning the missed opportunities of today’s youth.

From these conversations emerged a stark realization, one eloquently articulated by Mark Fisher in “Capitalist Realism, Is There No Alternative.” He astutely observes that we belong to a generation sold a dream—a dream that remains unfulfilled. We were promised that hard work and dedication would pave the path to success.

And indeed, we toiled relentlessly for years. Our efforts fueled the success of others, yielding profits and prosperity—but not for us. Instead, we grapple with the harsh realities of everyday life, contending with the relentless rise in living costs, forever haunted by the spectre of homelessness and worse.

The dream was a sham, leaving us disillusioned and powerless.

This collection of poems serves as a reflection of my musings on this disheartening aspect of modern existence. While my previous works often strike a balance between darkness and optimism, such equilibrium feels inappropriate here. Consider this my equivalent of a grunge phase—a raw exploration of disillusionment.

Contained within are predominantly unpublished pieces, offering a glimpse into the depths of my disillusionment that has not been shared elsewhere.

So, crank up those goth tunes and immerse yourself in the abyss of shattered dreams.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

Now Available

Two new collections, varied and contrasting. One is an exploration of modern life and the broken promises of a generation, and the other is life through the lens of a myriad of colours.

The Well of Sunken Dreams

Being a middle-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 we 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 make 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 we’re a few bad weeks away from homelessness or worse.

The dreams were 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.

Make no mistake though, this is not just a collection for grumpy old men. This also covers people of all ages and all sexes. It reflects what we all feel. And just as we men should read more works by women and come to understand a different point of view, then also I hope that some women might read this and come to understand us a little bit more.

So, stick on those goth tunes and wallow in the well of broken dreams.

The Colour of Dreams

As I immersed myself in the pages of my poetic endeavours, initially intending to curate a selection of new and mostly unpublished verses, an unexpected revelation unfolded. Leafing through the diverse tapestry of my creations, I discerned a recurrent thread—colours, vibrant and evocative, weaving through titles and themes alike.

Thus emerged the inspiration for a second collection, distinct yet intimately connected. Welcome to a poetic anthology where hues take centre stage, binding verses together with the common thread of colour. This compilation encapsulates a spectrum of thoughts and moments, mirroring the boundless variety and richness of the universe that cradles our existence.

Presented here is a journey through the kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences, inviting readers to witness the interplay of words and colours on this vibrant canvas. Stay tuned for the unveiling of the companion collection, promising another exploration of poetic landscapes beyond the realm of colour.

Present Ideas

If you are stuck for ideas – here are a few. They are original and different – plus being ebooks they have the advantage of not being hindered by delivery issues 🙂


Mankind Limited

Mankind Limited

Marc trudged on with life, marching in line with his fellow workers. Weighed down by the everyday burdens of life, the pressure to conform, to succeed or face destitution.

Yet he knew, in his heart that it was all wrong, the questions squirmed like fiery dragons in the pit of his heart, beneath his deepest darkest doubts.

Until they grew and burst his sanity, set him on a path of defiance and rebellion. A path that would cross three others – all like him seeking answers.

A path of danger and adventure that would see him marked as a terrorist and fleeing for his life. It would see him find love and heartbreak, hope and despair, Most of all, it would open his eye to the possibility of an ancient and powerful secret that might answer all his doubts and fears.

If he survived.

Buy Now


Thirteen Tales

Thirteen Tales of Ghosts Cover

As the title says – thirteen tales about ghosts. Yet, while ghosts feature in them all – not all are traditional ghost stories.

You will find the vengeful spirit but also the plaintiff one. The haunting message from the past and the playful spirits capturing the joy of their past lives.

Some of these visitors from beyond lead the haunted to peace and joy – others take them on much darker paths to places with no return.

Enjoy them – just don’t get too comfortable.

Buy Now


A Spring of Dreams

A Spring of Dreams

Three hundred and sixty-five poems in all shapes and sizes, sprung from dreams and emotion. Published day after day for a year. There are haiku, sonnets, katauta, lanturnes and many other forms – including free form. The moods are as varied as the forms and often reflect my mood on the day. There is sadness and grief, joy and love.

If nothing else – these can provide a small moment in everyone’s stressful lives to stop and contemplate the world in a different way.

Buy Now


Andervayne’s Dream

In these times of quick gratification and short attention spans, I decided to try and buck the trend and present something not only with greater length but also depth.

The poems in this collection were written over a long period and for different purposes. They are varied but they are all long. And they all represent challenges. Each was a challenge to myself, to sustain a quality of writing for a long period and within tight constraints of form while still telling a story. They also represent and challenge to the reader. The challenge to throw off the pressure of everyday life, the pressure to hurry, hurry, hurry to take the time to read something, absorb it over time.

Such effort needs reward, these poems should not be a one-time quick fix. If the reader is going to put that effort in then there should be a payoff, they should be able to continue to get something from it afterwards. Whether that be from contemplation of what they have digested or from revisiting, rereading and seeing things they missed the first time around. So the final challenge to me was to provide this depth of content – not just quantity.

Buy now


The Colour of Dreams

The Colour of Dreams

I was perusing my poetry collection with the intention of putting together a collection of new, largely unpublished poems. This collection is not that. As I was going through all my poems I noticed that I have a tendency to use colours in the titles, and even when I do not the poem is often rooted in the idea of colour.

So, I decided to do a second collection while I was at it. A collection of poems bound together by the theme of colour. A spectrum of thoughts and moments reflecting the infinite colour and variety of the universe in which we dwell.

This collection is presented here.

By here


The Well of Sunken Dreams

The Well of Sunken Dreams

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.

By now