Storycomic Weekly Newsletter: April 20th
ALWAYS POSTED A WEEK EARLIER ON PATREON
A Week of Literary Marvels on Storycomic Presents
This past week on Storycomic Presents, hosted by Barney Smith, has been a whirlwind tour through the worlds of poetry, fantasy, and the intricate blend of both. Each guest brought unique insights and inspirations to our understanding of storytelling in its many forms.
Mary Elder Jacobsen and the Poetic Landscapes of "Stonechat"
Episode 351 explored Mary Elder Jacobsen's debut poetry collection, "Stonechat." Mary's work delves into life’s emotional and physical terrains with a striking use of poetic forms that capture everything from the vitality of existence to the depths of grief. The natural world is a constant reference point in her poems, providing a lens to view the mythic amidst the mundane. Her session shed light on her creative process and emphasized her deep connection with the arts and nature. "Stonechat" emerges as a collection of poetry and a profound journey through life’s contrasts and continuities.
Becca Lee Gardener’s Fantastical Worlds in "Min the Mighty"
Episode 352 introduced us to Becca Lee Gardener and her children's fantasy novel, 'Min the Mighty: Book One of the Dragon Champion.' This story captivates with its rich lore and the adventures of Min, a tiny dragon destined for greatness. Becca discussed her narrative choices, the joys of crafting a world in which young readers can get lost, and her vision for Min’s future escapades. For enthusiasts of fantasy and young readers, 'Min the Mighty' is a testament to the power of self-belief and the importance of resilience.
Amy Allen’s "Mountain Offerings": A Lyrical Journey Through Life
The week wrapped up with Episode 353 featuring Amy Allen, who discussed her poignant poetry collection, 'Mountain Offerings.' Amy’s poems reflect a journey from youth to adulthood, intertwined with the beauty of the Vermont landscape. She shared her transition from education to poetry, profoundly influencing her writing style and thematic focus. The interview highlighted the universal appeal of her work, inviting listeners to find the extraordinary in the ordinary through her poetic exploration of life's subtle moments and significant milestones.
Each episode this week has offered our listeners a unique lens on storytelling, whether through the rhythmic beauty of poetry or the imaginative expanses of fantasy. These discussions are not just interviews; they are an invitation to explore the depths of human experience and the power of narrative art. Join us next week for more insights and inspirations from the world of literature on Storycomic Presents.
Continuing the Quest for the Ultimate Dad Jokes
The journey of gathering those perfect, groan-inducing one-liners continues. Yes, the pace is steady but slow, as ensuring quality humor takes time and a knack for comedic gold-digging. I am still elbow-deep in the archives and the wilds of the internet, curating what will hopefully be your next source of chuckle-worthy dad material.
Your patience and encouragement mean the world as I sift through classic zingers and innovative new quips. This process, as meticulous and cheerfully tedious as it is, is shaping to be another exciting adventure in dad humor.
I can’t wait to share the following 500 jokes with you—all designed to bring smiles, eye rolls, and maybe even a heartfelt laugh. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you once again for being the best part of this comedic journey.
A Breath of Fresh Mountain Air: A Review of 'Mountain Offerings' by Amy Allen
In contemporary poetry, Amy Allen's 'Mountain Offerings' emerges as a serene yet stirring journey through life's varied landscapes. This collection is an exquisite reflection of human experience, framed against nature's tranquil yet potent scenes—from the crisp nights under Vermont’s starlit sky to the nuanced quietude of lakeside mornings.
Allen's poetry is a tapestry woven with threads of youthful curiosity and mature wisdom, a narrative that guides the reader from innocence through the complexities of adulthood. The poems resonate with the clarity of mountain air, capturing the essence of both temporary and enduring moments—whether it be the playful glistening of snow or the profound pain of loss. Each line is meticulously crafted, combining brevity and beauty to celebrate the natural world and its reflection on our inner lives.
'Mountain Offerings' is not just a collection of poetry but a pathway to introspection. Allen invites us to pause and ponder, to lose ourselves in the imagery of "wild onions and fiddlehead ferns" and find ourselves in the "overturned lifeboats" and "lost mother’s orchids." Her work offers a clear, resonant voice that acts as a mirror and a window to the soul, urging us to see the world—and ourselves—with renewed clarity and appreciation.
This collection is highly recommended for anyone who seeks solace in poetry that bridges the personal with the universal, the mundane with the magical. Amy Allen’s Mountain Offerings is a compelling invitation to explore the depths of human emotion through the simple, profound language of the natural world. It is an essential read for those who cherish poetry that is both accessible and deeply moving.
Seasonal Shifts: New Strategies and Natural Phenomena
Spring has finally sprung here, and I couldn't be more excited to share some personal updates and happenings around the radio station and at home.
First, the shift in weather has been a delightful change—all the snow has melted away, and while it’s been replaced by rain, the fresh scent of spring and the sound of gentle showers bring a sense of renewal that only this season can offer. It’s a wet reminder that nature is getting ready to burst back into life, and so are we!
At the radio station, we’ve been buzzing with new strategies and ideas to increase revenue. The team and I are exploring various initiatives to enhance our offerings and bring our listeners and sponsors more value. We're looking at everything from special-themed broadcasts to unique partnership opportunities. It’s an exciting time as we brainstorm and implement changes that we hope will lead to a more vibrant, engaging, and financially sustainable future for the station.
One of the most thrilling experiences I have had recently was witnessing a total solar eclipse right from our backyard! It was an awe-inspiring event that reminded me of the universe's wonders. Watching the sky darken during the day, experiencing the sudden drop in temperature, and seeing the corona of the sun was nothing short of spectacular. I shared a memorable moment with family and friends, providing a unique start to the season.
As we move into spring, I look forward to more mild days, the opportunities they bring, and sharing these moments with you. Stay tuned for more updates from the station, and as always, thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm.
The Swings are back out after the snow melted
Sitting out in the driveway for the Eclipse viewing
I am growing my Patreon and offering an excellent way for my independent creative community to sustained advertise their work!
The website of your choice will be featured in the show notes of all of our podcasts for as long as you are a member of the Storycomic Patreon. The Founders Club offer is only for the first 15 subscribers. This is at any Patreon Subscription level.
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons,
Higgens802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Andrew Gronosky of Shewstone Publishing, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/
https://www.vonallan.com/
https://higgins802.com/
https://shewstone.com/
Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!