Pain/Art
I still see you everywhere.
"Predeterminationalism or Whatever"
Cyclical disappointment.
Failing
A forgotten poem about failing to understand and to be understood.
"Friction"
This is the most sexually graphic and unapologetically open poem that I've ever written; it explores the correlation between self-loathing and masochism.
Familiar Anxieties
An ode to old traumas and struggles: oddly comforting, when compared to new ones
"Rubber Figs"
Musings on the slow death of both a jointly-purchased houseplant and a doomed relationship.
"Bargain Bin"
This poem is easily one of my most irreverent, and if you know my poetic style, you'll notice that it's incredibly self-aware in its mockery.
"An Orange by Any Other Name"
Oddly enough, written as part of a job application's requirements
"Heaven on Earth"
This poem is an homage to the timeless greats Robert Frost and William Wordsworth. These two poets are a few of the very best, especially when it comes to depictions of nature, and their respective works inspired me to write a piece of my own.
"Sea Glass"
Sometimes, things must first be broken and discarded before they can fully achieve their purpose and fulfillment; Being broken is not the end. It is merely a chance for a new beginning.
"A Song Amidst the Sunrise"
One morning, after a long, sleepless night, I sought a few hours of rest; as sleep finally drew near, however, I was stirred by the calling of a bird, which broke the silence of an otherwise-quiet world. Yet, instead of irritation, I found inspiration.
"For My Sunflower, the Sunshine of My Life"
Wouldn't it be nice to abandon all of life's problems in favor of the freedom of nature and the simple, yet busy life of a bee?
"Churning Without Ceasing"
There's something about the incredible and unshakeable might of the ocean that should terrify us, not fill us with peace.
"Starry-eyed"
This poem focuses on the belief that even though we, as humans, are a microscopic component of a much larger cosmos, our problems and emotions cannot always be looked at through such a lens. Although small in the grand scheme of the universe, the emotions we feel are still very real, and daresay, even a pivotal extension of the vastness of space.
"Season's Pleadings"
This little ditty is sung from the perspective of a man who is asking the woman he loves to stay with him on a particularly cold evening.
"Cuppa Love"
This "short short" is a loosely-based true story about losing what's important while also finding the will to persevere in spite of the trials and tribulations that life so often throws our way.
100 Word Story
This story was written for my "Reading Like a Writer" class. The assignment was to write a story in 100 words, no more, no less. I crafted a scene that may eventually be included in the book I'm writing about World War II.
Smiglowski Anticipates the 91st Academy Awards: Who Will Win What?
The 91st Academy Awards are less than two weeks away, and Hollywood’s best and brightest are preparing for a night that honors their work and dedication to film. There are 24 categories, and an abundance of talent all vying for the top awards and for critical esteem. As I do every year, I’ve made it my mission to see as many nominated films as possible, and I’d like to share some of my predictions with you...
Smiglowski Reviews the 91st Academy Awards Nominations
The 91st Academy Awards will be held on Feb 24., there is no shortage of stories going into it this year, and there is also an excess of quality films to discuss. Now that the Golden Globes have come and gone, we can make certain predictions about what the evening will be like. So, without further adieu, here’s my list of storylines to watch out for leading up to the Oscars...
"Snowblindness"
This short poem showcases the very first stages of survivor's guilt, seen through the eyes of a young man.
[A bird flew over the city streets]
This small poem is a tragically-ironic look at human life from the perspective of an inquisitive, avian passerby.
About Me
I am a writer, an editor, a hockey content writer, and a linguist; I am a published poet and short storyist, a former entertainment journalist, magazine editor, and college-level English tutor. My expertise is on pop culture, media, and film - especially when viewed critically and through a progressive lens