The Rival Poet

The column of your book titles, always introducing your latest one, looms over me like Roman architecture. It is longer than the name of an Italian countess, longer than this poem will probably be. Etched on the head of a pin, my own production would leave room for The Lord’s Prayer and many dancing angels. No matter.

In my revenge daydream I am the one poised on the marble staircase high above the crowded ballroom. A retainer in livery announces me and the Contessa Maria Teresa Isabella Veronica Multalire Eleganza de Bella Ferrari. You are the one below fidgeting in your rented tux with some local Cindy hanging all over you.

Billy Collins

2001-2002 US Poet

Laureate

Dear reader,

This will be the 53rd consecutive year that we publish our literary magazine, while we didn’t get as many submissions as compared to previous years, we still received some great work. While going through the submissions, we started to see a common theme: love. Many of the poems had to do with love for themselves, others, and the world around us. The photography and art reflected the same thing. Our small, but mighty, staff is so proud and excited to bring you the latest edition of Etched on the Head of a Pin. Once again thank you to everyone who submitted their work. Enjoy.

Sincerely,

Abby Hosler Managing Editor

The

by Sean Durbin

Art by Brenna snyder

The

15 16

by Sean Durbin

17 by Abby Hosler

18

by Minaleah Koffron

Art: Brenna Snyder The by Micciah Serne

Photo: Abby Hosler

Heartbreak Hurts by Micciah Serne

Photo: Abby Hosler

Heartbreak Hurts by Micciah Serne

Photo: Abby Hosler

Your Sprout by Alice Kraatz

Photo: Mason Alston

The Lovers by Alyssa Preston

Photo: Ainsley Kesman