In The Lane and Other Poems, readers are transported to a unique setting: opposite a sobering-up unit in the heart of Adelaide's CBD. Amidst the nightly commotion and close encounters with the rawness of humanity, one might expect tales of chaos. Yet, these poems are imbued with the serenity of nature, the whisper of trees, and the vast expanse of the sky. The moon, a recurring muse, casts its gaze upon the world below, often reflecting on the crowns of human heads. While the collection does not shy away from the grittier aspects of life, presenting poignant portraits of individuals in turmoil, it also captures moments of genuine connection. The author’s interactions with many of these souls, from casual conversations to a memorable embrace and blessing from an African spiritualist, add depth and humanity to the narrative. This anthology is a testament to finding beauty and connection in unexpected places, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.
Terry Wilson lives in Adelaide, South Australia. He has three other books published by Austin Macauley: Fifty, Natural and Fox Spirit.