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 circle, remain, illusion, and bridge.

If you would like to participate in the next special poetry assignment, the new words are silent, puzzle, envelop, and hypnotize.

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

Three Word Poems (Spotlight Runner-Up!)
 
I sat there on a low stool, head against
Mrs. Goat, the spritz of milk in the pail
a pale morning song.
 
Judy Kaber

 

Jimmy Roger Billy
 
In the hospital, Billy told me,
"I'd rather drink than live
 
Jane Collins

 

Seed Spinner
 
Burgeoning womb presses,
binds her core tight as tottering Lotus
feet twisted into shiny new moons.
 
Virginia Boudreau

 

A Taxonomy of Grief
 
Clarity remains
only as an implication, a classification
of imprisonment
 
Aaron Bauer

 

A Water-snide Day
 
that's how it is
some things remain
others reach for new dimensions
 
Barbara De Franceschi

 

Now You See It, Now You Don't
 
The wind shows itself,
but I am not a keen observer.
 
Gary Glauber

 

Neurotic Love Sonnet
 
Because these words I write won't disappear
Even if you do, across some heavenly bridge.
 
Rachel Burns

 

June's Illusion
 
no cricket chirps
corn stands
barely ankle high
 
Nancy Jentsch

 

I Confide in Mina Harker about My Divorce
 
I stop mid-sentence and let her speak. She used to be
Mina Murray, she tells me, and still remains herself
 
Jennifer Finstrom