Our XPRESS Chapbook Series has been incredible. We wanted to create a place for innovative new poetry and have been amazed by the creativity.
“Don Orfeo" by Ron Searls is an incredible work in epic verse setting the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in late 17th century Spanish Florida. It was inspired by three elements: first, Chaucer's resetting of the Orpheus myth into Medieval times in his poem, Sir Orfeo; second, the author's personal connection to Florida where he was born, resided, and traveled; and finally, the rich cultural heritage of Florida's Seminole people. The surprise was the author’s discovery of the true indigenous peoples of Florida, especially, the Calusa, with their belief in the tripartite soul. Don Orfeo is an homage to the lost peoples of Florida, written in a style appropriate to the time. Epic mythology meets forgotten history in this time-bending adventure where the Orpheus legend crashes into colonial Florida—discover the silenced voices and spiritual beliefs of Florida's original inhabitants in a poetic odyssey that proves ancient stories still hit different.
Noah Berlatsky's "The Sentient Flock, In Simpler and Sexier Times" is an experimental poem structured in 26 numbered sections, with each section consisting of a single extended sentence. The poem draws inspiration from John Ashbery's stream-of-consciousness style in "Flow Chart" while incorporating linguistic fragments from contemporary digital detritus—particularly spam emails. Berlatsky employs a deliberate collage technique, weaving together disparate elements including corporate jargon, mythological references, technological terminology, political commentary, and consumer culture language. The poem's kaleidoscopic approach creates striking juxtapositions between high and low culture, ancient and modern references, and earnest and absurd sentiments, resulting in a work that both mimics and critiques our fragmented information landscape. A linguistic fever dream where corporate buzzwords collide with ancient gods, digital spam transforms into vivid art, and the fractured language of modern life reveals unexpected beauty—poetry that turns our information overload into something authentic.
Ralph Long Jr.'s "It doesn't matter that..." is a thoughtful poetry collection unified by its distinctive opening phrase, which begins each poem. The collection balances serious contemplation with moments of humor, inviting readers to question the significance we assign to our daily lives. These poems capture fleeting moments of tranquility amid life's constant motion—from dawn at a beach to quiet reflections on travel and relationships. Through its recurring refrain, the collection prompts us to reconsider what truly matters in an age where balance often seems elusive, encouraging personal reflection on our own values and priorities. In a world obsessed with significance, discover what truly matters in these reflective poems that remind us how beauty often hides in the moments we're told don't matter.
Want to join our chapbook family? We're accepting submissions! Visit our Submissions page to learn more.