Book excerpt: This is a collection of poems and essays that represents a significant amount of the material that I have written over a span of the last three decades. Poetry is the main form of the writing I have done, but I also did some song-writing and short prose pieces, though I have chosen to include mostly poetry in this book. This is the first time I have published any of my work, as writing and music have been more of a hobby for me than a serious consideration. It is only by the friendly suggestions of friends and family that this book sees fruition even now, so I hope that I don't disappoint anybody's expectations.