Ghosts

  “War does not determine who is right.” —Bertrand Russell     As I watch I see who is left. Continue reading →

Films of Courage: Toyland

This short film is poignant, powerful, and heartbreaking. A memorable must-see. For more information about Toyland, check its IMDB page Continue reading →

Films of Courage: Porcelain Unicorn

This film is only three minutes long, it’s a must-see. For more information about Porcelain Unicorn, check its IMDB page Continue reading →

The Legacy

The father hits the son. The son has a son. The son becomes a father.   The father hits the Continue reading →

Heroes

I read the Times in the morning, watch TV news each day, a few magazines, Foreign Affairs, may be slightly Continue reading →

Oliver Claws the Door

      Al Ortolani’s poetry and reviews have appeared, or are forthcoming, in journals such as Rattle, Prairie Schooner, New Continue reading →

Blue Collar

      Al Ortolani’s poetry and reviews have appeared, or are forthcoming, in journals such as Rattle, Prairie Schooner, New Continue reading →

A Given Life

It’s cold on his birthday. I shiver inside my car, waiting for him to return. Just a bag of dope, Continue reading →