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G.S. Ling is a pseudonym for the author. He is a published academic historian and an educator. His earliest poems appeared in a volume of American Poetry Anthology published by Robert Nelson in 1990. The collection of poems presented in this book however is not only the author’s personal reminiscences of times bygone, but is also a celebration of the poetry of Peggy Adams whose selected poems have been proudly included for the benefit of the reader. Here, dear reader, you will find an opportunity to delve into the poetic compositions not of great poets but of ordinary individuals who take pleasure in the art of verse. It is hoped that through this collection you, likewise, will be encouraged to explore the inspirational mysteries of the self through this aspect of literary creativity. In this way we have a place prepared for beauty and fulfilment.

To the seasoned poetry reader it may not come as a surprise the general consensus on the notion that poets, in the most part, are consumed with feelings of un-requited love, and very often attempt in their poems to recapture lost moments of intimacy and passion. It is, therefore, natural to assume their poems are reflective of personal pain and deeply engraved psychological sensitivities which may expose the poet to unnecessary embarrassments and prejudices. To whatever degree this might be true, however, in reading these poems the reader is humbly asked to consider whether one would be constrained from creative writing and outpouring of emotions of love and passion under circumstances that may entail his or her deliverance from public reproach or fear of ridicule. I think not. I must, however, also add to this consensus the notion that poets through reaching out to their muses seek immortality through creativity. Whichever consensus a reader is inclined to agree with, I remain cognizant of my conviction that priceless unspoken exultations will follow those who are courageous enough to nourish the ground upon which they stand with prodigious droplets of their own lacrima – they are the ones who are kissed by God. So, dear reader, when you reflect upon the words written on these pages, please thread softly for you would be threading not just on the remains of a day.

In the final analysis, it must be said that poetry gives us the opportunity to find ways of expressing what we are, and how we think and feel. Poetry, perhaps, is the best literary means for opening a way out of our troubled minds or elated emotions. Poetry offers a way to joie de vivre, to celebrating happiness and the pleasures of life. Yet, it is still a viable and a kinder alternative to the undesirable and lasting effects of self-deprecation, mutilation and bodily injury at a time when life no longer seems meaningful. On the contrary poetry offers the gift of self-consolation, healing, reconciliation and, ultimately of celebrating life itself.

G. S. Ling
     London, 2009

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