three muses

what a fortunate man
to have three muses
of the highest order
to inspire me
and chide me
and drive me
when i am lost




sylivia
who instructs me
in literary fidelity
"pour your heart into your work
day in and day out
and believe"




natalie goldberg
provides water for my thirst
"give yourself permission
to write the worst junk in the world
and do not worry
for what is important
is to write"




and wilma mcdaniel
who tells me
"write what you are
and apologize to no one
including yourself"