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.
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It also contains largely previously unpublished works that have not appeared anywhere else.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.
Our minds need respite. They need distraction but not mindless, not trash. They need feeding. We all know this. We all forget it.
There have been many times I have been stuck in the deep, cloying pool of stress or simply stuck on a problem I cannot solve. The resolution has most often been to do something else. Something that engages the mind differently. This frees your subconscious to solve the issues for you. So often after such a period, the solution presents itself.
Many great thinkers and creatives have employed this method. Both Darwin and Einstein for example took walks in the country and let their minds be engorged with its beauty. For others, it has been music.
I present here another option. Poetry. A whole collection in fact – one for each day of the year.
So when you’re stuck, or just in a fuzz that you need to shake – pick up “A Spring of Dreams”, read one poem – contemplate it. Give your mind the break it deserves.
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.
I wandered lonely as a brick That sinks and dives in stream and lake, When all at once I was so sick, And an awful mess I did make. Beside the lake, beneath the trees. Splattering my stomach in the breeze.
It must have been the bread I had Or maybe that old Milky Way. This puddle of sick smelt so bad Along the margin of the bay. Ten pints I had drunk, at a guess. Tossing my head, I felt a mess.
The waves in my head danced, and they Dashed my weak legs from under me. A poet could not be so gay As the one who stood over me. He gazed and gazed and then in glee Threw up and fell down next to me.
Next morn when on my couch I lay In vacant and in pensive mood. I swore I’d give up drink that day. And swore some more, it was quite rude. But soon, once more, the cider spills. I’ll sleep again with daffodils.
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.
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?
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
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.
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……
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
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.
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
Discover the magic of poetry with 365 poems crafted from dreams and deep emotions, published daily over a year. This collection includes haikus, sonnets, katautas, lanturnes, and free form, capturing a wide range of moods and experiences—from sadness and grief to joy and love.
Take a moment each day to pause and reflect on the world through these diverse and heartfelt poems. They offer a brief escape from the stress of everyday life, providing a fresh perspective and a touch of inspiration. Dive into the rhythm of poetry and let it enrich your daily routine.
“Join me in unravelling the tangled web of our generation’s unfulfilled promises: a poetic exploration of disillusionment. #UnfulfilledPromises #PoeticJourney”
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.
…. keeps the stress away. Dive into my collection of 365 poems, filled with various forms and emotions. #PoetryLovers #365Poems
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.
Dive into a spectrum of emotions and thoughts with my new poetry collection, where each poem is rooted in the beauty of colour. Experience the infinite variety of our universe through vibrant words. #PoetryCollection #ColorsInWords
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.
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”
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.
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.
Explore the beauty of words in their various forms. “A Spring of Dreams” is a poetic treasure trove, offering a glimpse into the author’s moods and emotions over a year. Dive into the world of haiku, sonnets, and more.
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.
Step into a world where every shade tells a story. ‘The Colour of Dreams’ invites you to explore the universe through the lens of colour and imagination. #Poetry #Dreamscape”
Immerse yourself in a poetic tapestry that weaves together a myriad of emotions and experiences, all connected by the vibrant thread of colour. This collection invites readers to explore the kaleidoscope of thoughts and moments that mirror the endless hues and diversity of our cosmic existence.
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.
“A Spring of Dreams” is a poetic odyssey that offers solace and inspiration. Explore 365 poems that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect. Get your copy now and let the power of words and emotions embrace your life.
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.
Step into a world where every shade tells a story. ‘The Colour of Dreams’ invites you to explore the universe through the lens of colour and imagination. #Poetry #Dreamscape”
Immerse yourself in a poetic tapestry that weaves together a myriad of emotions and experiences, all connected by the vibrant thread of colour. This collection invites readers to explore the kaleidoscope of thoughts and moments that mirror the endless hues and diversity of our cosmic existence.
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”
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.
Each day holds a new dream, a new emotion, and a new perspective in “A Spring of Dreams.” Join Scott Andrew Bailey on a poetic journey that spans a year and encapsulates the essence of life’s varied experiences. #PoetryForLife
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.
Exquisite black lace Sheer black nylon Spicy perfume air Smooth black hair Blood red lips Deep blue eyes Soft warm skin Hot pulsing blood Cool night beckons Exquisite black lace
Unless he went made it through today. Found the strength from somewhere. Put aside his pain.
The trauma his son had suffered had not been at his hands. Logically there was no responsibility for it on his shoulders.
Logic was a weak fence against raw emotion. Emotion that told him that he had failed as a father, that the protection he was supposed to give had been lacking, just that once.
Nobody agreed with him.
That made no difference.
So, he would not compound failure with failure. This was his last chance. He would take it.
He had tried all other avenues. Therapy, prayer, medication. Nothing worked, Yet what it had done was show him the way. It had made clear the path he needed to tread.
So he took a deep breath and rose from his seat. He nodded to the doctor signalling his readiness. The doctor frowned but kept his piece. He opened the door and let him enter his son’s room.
The room was sparse, clinical. His son lay curled on top of the bedsheets, motionless. Awake but unresponsive. He did not look up or acknowledge his father’s entrance.
There was a small bedside table to the left of the bed on which sat a plastic beaker of water. The bed was positioned by the window. Sunlight tried to make an impression on the coldness of the room but failed. The only other furniture was a white chest of drawers and some empty white bookshelves.
Then there were the books.
The books, many many books, that should have rested on the shelves or strewn on the floor. An impressive collection for one so young.
They hung impossibly in the air.
He sighed. He knew what came next. It had all become familiar to him. This time though he did not avoid it. He did not flinch or try to defend himself. This time he smiled at his son.
The books flew at him. As if thrown by immense strength and anger. The hard spines whacked into his flesh like dull nails. Again and again and again. Raining pain upon his body. The books that hit him fell to the ground limply, twitched like dying flies, then were suddenly whisked up and flung again.
There was no let-up.
He could feel his body being pummelled into a bloody bruised mess. But he took it. Stood calmly, raised his arms towards his son and kept smiling. Gave all he had left to him – gave him his unconditional love. Took the punishment not meant for him.
The books whirled faster as the rage grew. Like a tornado of leather and card, they descended on him, pounded him. The pain passed over what was bearable to no longer being processable – so he no longer felt it. He knew he would not last much longer – if this continued his body would fail him. Darkness crept inwards along the edges of his eyes. He kept smiling, locked his legs and stood, arms out.
The whirl became a darkness that was trying to beat his flesh from his bones. He felt like the bones themselves were splintering beneath.
Then it stopped.
Suddenly all the books fell to the floor. Sunlight sprang into the room as if a lock had burst.
His son looked up and held out his arms for his father.
Catapults and boiled sweets Sailing boats and jam jars Watching tadpoles Playing in the woods Hunting newts Swings and roundabouts Wistful thinking For the days That never were
Adrift Lost Floating Free No goals No direction No chains Just reflection Sparkling stars Burning sun Gentle waves Life undone Free Floating Lost Adrift
I am a ship Crowded into the harbour wall Anchored sound And safe But I can see the sea Beyond the gap Calling Lulling The storms come The harbour shields But still, I am tossed And battered by Uncaring waves The chain is strained The anchor holds For now So many storms I have seen How many more Before the chain breaks Setting me free Lost at sea Sailing unfettered Unmoored
Always descending, never ascending. Moving downwards, moving down. I can’t get used to this feeling Moving downwards, moving down. Is it really like this? What are we doing? Do we really want this? Is this the thing to be? The chains that pull the valves and the levers, That drive the steam through pipes of dreams.
Dream worlds falling, morning calling, Pull the chains on, shoulder the yoke. Down to business. Down to labour. Moving downwards, moving down. I don’t like this, what am I doing? I don’t really want this, what is to be? Enter the shaft that takes us downwards. The light is dimming as our dreams descend
Scott Andrew Bailey - Author 