In an ongoing series, the editors, former contributors, and readers of Eclectica have been invited to write a poem containing four pre-chosen words. The words for this issue are question, circle, abandon, and electric.

If you would like to participate in the next special poetry assignment, the new words are middle, never, coerce, and skull.

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(These are excerpts—click on the title to view the whole poem)

Two Word Poems
 
I had to write his life—
but all my questions
brought forth only lies.
 
Ray Templeton

 

Ariadne Asks Daedalus for a Map
 
Once inside, they circle the candle.
They are a trio: the father, the son,
and the worn spirit of the girl.
 
Candace Butler

 

History In Defeat
 
The way life ambles along
with old fashioned mottos,
the renovations of self
to suit social demands.
 
Barbara De Franceschi

 

Mothballs
 
A crocheted wool afghan
reeks of them,
even all these years
after her death.
 
Mathews, David

 

Konar, 1995
 
your fingers
big and firm against mine
define the touch
as an assurance of safety
 
Vatsa, Mihir

 

Novel
 
I don't think of it often, though it's
the size of a small child, maybe
a third grader.
 
Jennifer Finstrom