About the poems

 

Drawn from Proper Myth (Orchises Press, 1998, ISBN 0-914061-67-4), these four poems reflect the intelligent wit and deep psychological insight of a mature and thoughtful writer. William F. Van Wert (1945-2003) produced more than a dozen books which include: a book of essays, Memory Links; three novels, Don Quickshot, What's It All About; and Stool Wives; a collection of short stories, The Advancement of Ignorance; three collections of poetry, The Invention of Ice Skating, Proper Myth, and Vital Signs; two collections of short fiction, Tales for Expectant Fathers and Missing in Action; a novella, The Discovery of Chocolate; and a poetry chapbook, Hot Candy.

 

“Orpheus Descending,” “Lethe,”  “Tantalus” and “Medusa” copyright 1998 by William F. Van Wert. Used by permission.