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Gerald Marchewka - EzineArticles.com Expert Author
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- A Killer Tsunami Wave
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Perhaps one of the most liberating aspects of English poetry is the freedom to be caught in the rapture and rhythm of the written word. In this particular case, my poem, " A Killer Tsunami Wave" may illustrate how an ordinary poet may allow himself to fathom the depths of human despair before offering a special solution to a very serious human problem.
- Good God Almighty! A Cool Cat Singin' Scat
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] In simple terms, scat singing is a form of vocalization whereby unique utterances approximate the sound of ordinary words. In this way, new sounds allow the singer to create a new language that may forge a favorable impression upon the listener's ear. In other words, a good scat may allow a talented vocalist to convey special meaning when ordinary words would surely fail.
- The Secret Life of Harry Jones (My Poem For Lisa)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] When we consider this salubrious poem, it is arguable that no name may be more suitable for our two fisted, stout hearted, drag queen than "Harry Jones". This name however, certainly has a history of its own.
- Hey, Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? An Ode to Langston Hughes
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] This poem was written upon reflecting upon the poetry of Langston Hughes. The content however emanates from my own personal experiences and my love for Langston's work.
- So Blue, So Cool (A Poem About Miles Davis)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Perhaps it is trite or commonplace to announce that listening to music can be an exhilarating experience. Yet it is certainly true that many lovers of Jazz cannot contain their excitement when they speak of the music of Miles Davis.
- A Poem For Denise Levertov
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Denise Levertov is a British born American poet who wrote with tremendous creativity and skill. Above all else, her words were often used to describe a range of subjects that include ethereal descriptions of the material world as well as the transformation of the human soul.
- Bang, Bang, Bang - In Memory of Lew Welch
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Lew Welch was born August 16, 1926 in Phoenix Arizona. As a Beat Generation poet Welch made his mark with poetry that was incisive and sparse. He often created images in which the superfluous reality of daily existence was cut down and stripped. As a result, his poems were often iconic penetrating and raw. In an event that may be considered quite ominous.
- A Child of the Streets - A Tribute to Gregory Corso
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] It is a magic medicine hat enshrouded by the briolette tears of what may on an inclement day be coolly cast asunder, by nothing but a big hungry English eel pie. On the eve of a cold steely blue night it is regrettable that so many of us, would rather pass it far beneath our dirty sheets. But above all else, it is a grey mushroom cloud only made complete with the blood and vinegar of a dark alabaster hue!
- A Seriously Funny Business - Russian Clowns Revel in New Year's Eve Tomfoolery
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] The Moscow State Circus Show, named New Year's Eve, headed by clown Kamardin's performance recently completed a series of performances in Ulaanbaatar that extended through December 31, 2004. While the Russian clown was the star attraction, the local Mongolian performers were more than able to show off some dazzling razzmatazz ... ( This article was first published in the UB Post on January 6, 2005)
- Feeding the Hungry - Nourishing the Soul
[News-and-Society] It is indeed true that many of us may spend our entire lives searching for a religion, philosophy or spiritual leader to guide us upon our lifelong journey. Yet few people realize that the answer to many of the questions that challenge us, could be quite so simple. For Les Stott, for example, the decision to open Kampuchea House became an answer to a question that would change his life forever.
- Miracle Ice Cream Meets the Milkman - An Ode to Adrienne Rich
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] During the twentieth century one of the most influential poets is no doubt, Adrienne Rich. As a write of considerable breath and scope, Rich became a recognized poet at the tender age ...
- Utterly Wasted
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Despite a comparatively high rate of HIV infections and noticeable cases of full blown AIDS, it would appear that effective educational programs have reduced the incidence of this virus and disease. According to a recent survey conducted in 2007 and 2008, Cambodia's population was approximately 14,656,000. The number of people living with HIV/AIDS was about 75,000. It was reported that 20,000 people living with HIV/AIDS were women fifteen years old and older. About 4,400 children were HIV positive or had AIDS.
- Eating Blue Burgers at the Ivy Bar and Grille
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] It is interesting to discover that the term "utopia", derived from ancient Greek, first appeared in the English language with the publication of Sir Thomas More's book of the same name written in 1516. More's "Utopia" is a fascinating novel that describes a perfect sociopolitical system. And while subsequent notions of paradise ...
- The Addict
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As we begin to read "The Addict" one might begin to ask what is the real function and purpose of poetry. Some people may argue it is to entertain. Other people may say it is to educate. And still others may argue that it is to edify. In "The Addict" ...
- The Terrace of the Elephant King
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] For those of you who may be unfamiliar with him, "Ganesha" is a pre-Angkhorian Hindu deity that is well known to countless people across the globe. "Ganesha" is truly an unforgettable image. He appears as a pot bellied man with an elephants head that is placed upon his shoulders. According to Hindu folklore ...
- Bangkok Blues (Gerry's Haiku)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Within this urban melange are groups of people that consist of Thai, Indian, Chinese and people from a variety of western countries. Many long time residents claim that this unique blend of urban city dwellers provide the metropolitan area with a unique character that is like no other. Critics however, claim ....
- Ta Som (A Prayer)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Ta Som is a diminutive structure that was built during the 12th century A.D. It was constructed as part of a widespread initiative sponsored by King Jayavarman VII to enhance the importance of the Dharma among the local people. Some historians also believe that the temple had once served as a hospital to cure the sick.
- Banteay Srei (A Temple)
[Book-Reviews:Poetry-Playscripts] The distinct advantage of this art form is that each segment of the work may be viewed from a distinct vantage point. Such a process provides depth and perspective to an object that may have been observed from only one point of view during the immediate past. In the world of poetry this radical art form ...
- The Terrace of the Leper King
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As I think about my own work, I would have to say that the ""Terrace of the Leper King"" is a commentary on what continues to be the morbid side of the human character. As I think about it, I come to realize that I am fascinated and abhorred by man's inability to quell his insatiable need for death and depravity. Quite curiously...
- Sleeping Under a Mosquito Net (Now I Know There Must Be a God)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] On the surface, this work may appear to be a straightforward form of poetic prose. Sometimes however ... things are not always as they seem. This story describes the absolute poverty of a young girl living in a downtrodden little village somewhere in the third world. In fact, she is so poor that both she and her mother cannot afford to pay for mosquito nets to protect themselves from the pesky parasites that feast upon their flesh. Ultimately however, the girl meets up with a Christian missionary who is absolutely touched by her great suffering. The young girl appreciates the sympathy and kindness of her foreign visitor and begins to attend to life with a rejuvenated spirit. For the Christian faithful, such a story may be quite inspiring. But for people who are familiar with such circumstances, it may be difficult to remain hopeful. It is indeed true that such stories rarely have a happy ending. And, of course, .... it is a great understatement to say that seeing children suffer in such deplorable conditions is a heartbreaking experience.
- The Incomprehensible Rantings of a Raving Lunatic
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] I must preface my sermon with the realization that sometimes the truth must hurt. My brothers and sisters I cannot hold myself back any longer. How long must we wallow in the mire? Yes brothers and sisters we are stuck in a muck! We are like filthy pigs that enjoy swimming in our own feces. Yes, we have succumbed to the great power of evil. It is time to repent my dear children. Satan has us in his deadly grip.
- Kissing a Girl in a Go Go Bar - The Story of Bobby D
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] While it is true that tourists may frequent such cities for a variety of reasons, the story of Bobby D is not an unlikely scenario. In many towns and cities across Southeast Asia you can see some of the most conspicuous couples. They consist of balding or gray haired western men with beautiful young Asian women.
- Sipping Cocktails by the Pool - On a Warm Winter Day
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] A popular poet once seemed to suggest that life may be a continual struggle to find a lasting source of warmth. In my opinion, ""Sipping Cocktails by the Pool (On a Warm Winter Day) is a lighthearted version of the same theme. ---- With a banana daiquiri in my hand, and a beautiful woman by my side ... I sit by the pool and enjoy all of the lovely sights that this small town may have to offer...
- Thirteen Demons at the Gate
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As Cambodia is a country where the overwhelming majority of the people pledge allegiance to traditional Buddhist precepts, the story of Jayavarman VII occupies a special place in their hearts and minds. Jayavarman was responsible for the construction of firehouses for travelers to rest and recreate, and hospitals for the sick and disabled to receive treatment. Jayavarman VII is also often referred to as "Buddharaja" or "Buddhaking" as he purportedly ruled the people with great compassion.
- Standing at the Gates of Hell (A Fragment)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] " It's So Old ... It Produces a Dreamlike Quality That Is Nothing Less Than Supernatural, Surreal ... and Out of This World. ... It IS Vivid, Freaky, Mindblowing and Mind Expanding, ... All At The Same Time"". I must also add that from my own personal experience, the stimulation from these ancient statues within the context of it's grandeur scenery produced the loose associations that resulted in this fragmentary poem.
- The Four Faces of Bayon
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] At the core of the Buddha's philosophy is the notion that deep human suffering is an endemic part of our everyday experience. As we become willing to realize the enormous scope and depth of human suffering, we can begin to cultivate a state of mind that will begin to diminish the ill effects of its daily impact.
- Apsara (A Traditional Dance)
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] They perform the Celestial Dance ... A Divine Ritual for the Heroes of their Land. Historical reports indicate that Apsaras are ancient deities who have mastered the fine art of the celestial dance. As mythological figures, they were known to dance in divine palaces and entertain their fallen heroes. The term Apsara has been translated into the English language as "nymph", "celestial nymph" and "celestial maiden".
- Stepping on a Landmine
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As you walk down any city street you can see them... Torn flesh and obliterated bone.Missing Hands, Arms Legs and Feet. They are the survivors of landmine explosions.
- A Cambodian Beggar
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As I reached for my ketchup an unlikely pair of eyes met mine. Dressed in a bright orange robe, this barefooted young monk had the most incredulous look upon his face.
- Hey Papa, Do You Want a Ride?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Tuk Tuk sir? Heroin? Marijuanna?
- Angkor at Dawn
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] As we arrived at Angkor just before the sun, We saw a tremendous array of color begin to surface just below a Cimmerian sky. Black shadows covered ancient collimated spires ... while exotic deities could be seen chiseled into extraordinary stone.
- Once Upon a Mongolian Dream - The Story of Khublai Khaan's Legendary Meeting With Phags-Pa
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Humanities] This article was first published in the UB Post on July 21st, 2005. It is a story that describes how Tibetan Buddhism was introduced to the Mongolian Empire during the Middle Ages.
- Charlie's Blues
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Perhaps this poem is not an amazing work of art. However I must confess the inspiration for this piece of work is Charles Bukowski. If you are unfamiliar with him, let me provide you with some biographical information.
- Listening to the Rain From Behind a Glass
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] How long has it been since you've listened to the rain ...
- Remembering History
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] It could be argued that poetry is only, a matter of history. Yet few poems illustrate this point like Li Yu's classic work, "How Many Tears."
- Reading a Midnight Song
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] How can a man escape life's sorrow and regret? What limit is there to my solitary grief?
- But Why Does She Suffer So?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] In retrospect, this poem may be the result of Li Yu's personal sorrow, or the pain he must have experienced as he felt the pain of others. Not only was Li Yu deposed from his position and his place, .... he surely witnessed the tragedies of many of the people who he held dear.
- Buddhist Dancers
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] In " A Heavenly Woman's Imprisoned in the Palace ", Li Yu, a famous Chinese poet, and the last ruler, of the Southern Tang Kingdom --- writes, As a heavenly woman's imprisoned in the palace at Penglai Hill All are silent as she sleeps by day in the painted hall. And as her hair is spread like jade clouds.
- Beyond a Hole, a Magic Mind - A Traveling Fisherman Trawling on a Troll
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] If ever there were an ancient poem .... that might stoke a shadowy fisherman
- The Peach Blossom Journey - One Man's Step to a Magic New World
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] Imagine a transcendent mind! Uncorrupted by the human world, you drift down a flowing stream and as you proceed...
- Chasing The Water As Peach Blossoms Cover - An Ancient River Crossing
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] In "The Peach Blossom Journey", a poem by Wang Wei, the world through the eyes of an ancient Chinese mystic are revealed. In a series of images that begin to question the nature of reality itself.
- Reindeer at Christmas - A Seasonal Look at the Life and Traditions of the Tsaatan People
[Home-and-Family:Holidays] This article, Reindeer at Christmas was first published in the UB Post on December 23, 2004. The inspiration for this essay occurred as I spoke with an anonymous French tourist about the Tsataan in Khovsgol as I stayed in the UB Guest House in Ulaanbatar. I hope it continues to offer the spirit in which it was written. Merry Christmas to all!!!
- Pure Brightness - Just Another Ordinary Poem
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( Du Mu's Tang Dynasty Poem, " The Pure Brightness Festival " with references to Jie Zitui, a loyal comrade and friend)
- Listening To the Sound Of Flowing Water Beneath a Hundred Miles Of Cloud
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] This article is an Analysis of Du Mu's Classic Tang Dynasty Poem, "Entering Shangshan". The poem has references to the Yangtze River.
- Another Drunkard's Dream - Part II
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] An Interpretation of Du Mu's Poem, " A Drunken Sleep" complete with Facts, Folklore and Analysis. Tang Dynasty poet writes, Amidst the autumn rain, the wine is well made.
- Fishing in Autumn - Just Another Drunkard's Dream
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( Some Ideas and Facts about Du Mu and his Tang Dynasty Poem, "Drinking Alone" )
- Summoning Souls - A Shaman's Approach to Spiritual Healing
[News-and-Society:Religion] This article first appeared in the U.B. Post in January, 2005. It was inspired by a ceremony performed in B. Zorigtbattar's ger, just below the Gandan Monastery in downtown Ulaanbaatar.
- A Poor Farmer's Wish
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( Some Thoughts on Tao Qian's Adventurous Trip Home - Part II - A Brief Summary of a Poem by Tao Qian )
- A Bird - Once Caged will Yearn to Return to a Forest of Old
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( Some Thoughts on Tao Qian's Adventurous Trip Home - Part I )
- Taking Refuge in the Tao - Another Look at "Drinking Wine"
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An Interpretation of Tao Qian's Ancient Poem, "Drinking Wine" with references to the Tao)
- Shamanism in Modern-Day Mongolia
[News-and-Society:Religion] It provides historical and sociopolitical perspectives on the state of Shamanism with comments from one of Mongolia's foremost Shaman.
- While Drunk on the 27th Day - In a Lake I Saw a Mirror of the Sky
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An analysis of Su Dong Po's poem, "Written while Drunk in Lake View Pavilion on the 27th Day of the Six Month" with references to alcohol consumption among the upper classes of the Shang Dynasty, and the Shi Jing, the Classic of Poetry, a legendary Confucian text.)
- Visiting the God of Mercy on a Rainy Day
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( Observations from Su Dong Po's Poem, Visiting the Temple of the God of Mercy on a Rainy Day )
- I Smile - My White Hair Blows Loosely in the Frost and Wind
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An Impromptu Verse by Su Dong Po with Comments and Analysis)
- Savoring the Moon on a Clear Cold Night
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (Some Thoughts on "Mid Autumn Moon, a Poem by Su Dong Po)
- New Years' Watch - "It's like a Snake that Crawls into a Hole"
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (It's like a Snake that Crawls into a Hole- A Quick Look at Su Dong Po's Poem, New Years' Watch)
- Dreaming of the Dead - As the Moon Shines Brightly in the Night, and Bare Pines Guard the Tomb
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (Quaint Impressions of Su Dong Po's "Dreaming of My Dead Wife" ...a Famous Song Dynasty Poem).
- The Stately Pleasure Dome of Khublai Khan
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An analysis of the famous poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, first published in Ulaanbaatar's English press in September 2005, as the Cult of Chinggis Khan swept the nation.)
- Lost In A Butterfly Dream - Who Can Foresee The End, To The Endless Change Of Things?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] A General Comment on Li Bai's Response to the Story of the Butterfly, and, One Philosophers' Images...in a Surrealistic Trope, ... and a Dark... Delphic Dream
- From Whose House Does the Secret Sound of a Jade Flute Fly?
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (A Lovely Description of Heavenly Sounds in Li Bai's Classic Poem, "Hearing a Flute on a Spring Night in Luoyang")
- Facing my Wine, Falling Blossoms have Filled the Folds of my Clothes
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] ( A Short Essay Written about a Funny Poem, by Tang Dynasty Poet Li Bai )
- A Single Night in the Lonely Life of a Great Romantic Poet
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] A Few Words about Li Bai's poem, "Thoughts on a Still Night"
- Freedom From A Mountaintop
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An Analysis of Li Bai's Poem, Sitting Alone on Jinting Mountain)
- A Lonely Tumbleweed Travels Ten Thousand Li
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (Another Sentimental Poem, Simply Called "Farewell My Friend," by Tang Dynasty Poet Li Bai)
- A Beautiful Person is Like a Flower at the Edge of the Clouds
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (Just One Vision of Heaven in Li Bai's Classic Poem, Long Yearning)
- An Ancient Tale of Separation, Longing and Loss: "Changgan Memories" Revisited
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An Analysis of the Ancient Poem, "Changgan Memories", by Tang Dynasty Poet, Li Bai)
- Questions and Answers from a Mountaintop
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] (An Explication of the Source and Significance of Human Happiness in Li Bai's classic poem "Questions and Answers on the Mountain")
- Straight from the Heavens: Li Bai's Poetry in Retrospect
[Arts-and-Entertainment:Poetry] A Legendary Poet's Musings on the Moon and other Important Matters...
- Meditations in Mongolia: Promoting Peace Compassion & Tolerance with the Kalachakra, Wheel of Time
[News-and-Society:Religion] (Reflections on the Nature and Significance of the Kalachakra with M. Gankhuyag at Ulaanbaatar's Gandan Monastery).
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