POETICALLY SKETCHED: LISTEN!!!

About the Book

Dear Reader, I want to personally thank you for selecting my second poetry book to read, which you may have purchased or received as a gift. This book is a continuation of a personal journey for me dealing with the theme of, Listen. I believe we truly only hear a fraction of what is spoken to us, which is highly dependent upon one’s individual interest. My quote on the front cover is evident of this, “I believe it’s unfortunate that… so often we hear words but don’t really listen to them!!!” I hope that you be able to identify and connect with some of these poetic sketched impressions on listening that may relate to your own personal experiences covering a full spectrum of emotions. Enjoy! In keeping with the theme “Listen!” the ear used on the front cover and other graphics was created by my nephew Leander, Jr., now 10 year old. The author’s portrait on the back cover was drawn by my niece Nakia when she was five years old in November 2000, which has a prominent spot on my refrigerator. This is the second of several books in the Poetically Sketched poetry series. In the future I plan to include children’s books and short stories. Thank you and have a Blessed One!!! Debra C. Ridgeway

About the Author

Ridgeway, Debra C. This is the second poetry book in a series by Debra. Her first book Poetically Sketched; Precious Moments was published last year in June 2008 and within four months it became a bestseller in the new authors' category. Previously, Debra has been published in seven different anthologies: “Different Beat But The Same Sound,” Treasured Poems of America, Sparrowgrass Poetry Forum, December 1991; “It’s Time To Go,” A Bouquet of Memories, The Poetry Center, Winter 1991; “The Perfect Setting on a Cold Wintery Night,” Voices of America, Sparrowgrass Poetry Forum, February 1992 and; “A Dream,” “Pointing The Finger,” and “The Spell of Her Illumination,” Reflections, Iliad Press, November 1991; “Lies and Deceit,” Visions and Beyond, Creative Arts and Science Enterprise,1992; “Silent Thoughts of a Child,” In a Different Light, National Library of Poetry, 1992; “Praying a Silent Prayer,” Treasured Poems of America, Sparrowgrass Poetry Forum, Summer 19996 . Debra has also been published in numerous church newsletters in the states of New York and Massachusetts, as well as Lenten meditation books in the states of Massachusetts and Virginia. Debra has presented her poetry in various fora for professional, church, family oriented and poetry open-mike events. Her favorite poets are e. e. cummings, Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou. A Research Analyst who currently resides in Virginia, Debra comments, “Poetry in the beginning for me was therapy. It enabled me to deal with the problems and frustrations felt by many young people not accepted in “the group.” It was during these moments that I learned to channel my energies in a more productive, creative, and self-satisfying way. Although, I did not pursue writing as a profession, I chose math, I have not forgotten the peace and excitement that is generated when seeing an idea for a song or poem come to life. Though math gives me the analytical stimulation I require, poetry gives me the breath for life.”