He sought for love, deluding himself passion could be bought.
Alack, Too late, he learned the damage he had wrought.
The Seeker
Leave a reply
Tag Archives: k morris author
Stopping Off
Bending, I trace the weathered stone resting peacefully in the grass. Being blind I know not who slumbers below, but hope they sleep well.
Birds sing. My dog investigates the plants growing in and around the grave, his warm head finds my hand, looking for an answer, “why have we stopped so close to home?” he seems to ask.
Turning, I run my hands over the rough bark of a huge tree. I notice a split in the midst of this mighty oak. Slowly the tree is dying. It won’t go soon unless storm uproots it but, in time the split will deepen, church wardens will consult. Perhaps staves will be employed to support the tree or, maybe a few blows of the woodman’s axe will bring it down for the safety of the community.
Intellectually I know death will one day find me but, standing here I feel no fear, only a curiosity about this place.
A 5 Star Review Of “Dalliance; A Collection Of Poetry And Prose”
I was delighted to receive the following 5 star review of my book, “Dalliance; A Collection Of Poetry And Prose”:
“Each page has a short, often poignant, poem, prose or story that seem to reach inside and grasp the heart”. (For the review please visit http://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R301LNR40266YO/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00QQVJC7E).
Thank you to the reviewer, Chris Graham for the above review. To download “Dalliance” please visit http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dalliance-collection-poetry-prose-Morris-ebook/dp/B00QQVJC7E/ref=cm_rdp_product (for the UK) or http://www.amazon.com/Dalliance-collection-poetry-prose-Morris-ebook/dp/B00QQVJC7E/ref=cm_cr_pr_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8 (for the US and rest of world).
Secret Diary Of PorterGirl
I recently came across The Secret Diary of PorterGirl, (https://portergirl.wordpress.com/), which relates the fictional adventures of Deputy Head Porter. PorterGirl is comfortably ensconced in her position at Old College where she spends her time engaging in various escapades. The blog is humorous and well written. I recommend checking it out.
Kevin
“Dalliance; A Collection Of Poetry And Prose” Will Soon Be Available In Print
On 23 April I wrote about the release of an expanded edition of my book, “Dalliance; A Collection Of Poetry And Prose”, (http://newauthoronline.com/2015/04/23/an-expanded-edition-of-dalliance-a-collection-of-poetry-and-prose-is-available-for-download/). In that post I mentioned that a print edition of “Dalliance” is in preparation, (I hope this will be available in May 2015).
Given the growth in ebook sales why, you may ask have I decided to produce a print edition of “Dalliance”?
There are several reasons:
- A number of family and friends prefer print books over their electronic counterparts. Indeed I know of at least one family member who would struggle with an ebook. I could, of course print off copies and distribute them to family and friends. However I would rather present my readers with a professionally produced book than a publication held together by staples or contained in a ring binder.
- I like traditional books. Being blind I can’t read print books (most of my reading takes place using the text to speech facility on my Kindle). I do, however love the feel and scent of paper books. A beautifully produced book is an object to be cherished not only for its value as a means of communicating stories, information etc, but also as a thing of beauty possessed of intrinsic worth.
- I want to have a copy of “Dalliance” on my real (not merely Kindle) shelves.
- I intend to donate print copies of “Dalliance” to local businesses and service providers allowing those who would not otherwise come across my writing to do so. I will, of course gain the permission of said businesses. I intend to sidle up to business owners dressed in dark glasses and a rain coat which has seen better days and ask in a low tone while glancing furtively over my shoulder,
“Would you like something a little different?”
Then, prior to the police being called I will hand over my book!
If you would like a print copy of “Dalliance” please email me at newauthoronline (at) gmail.com putting “Dalliance” in the subject line.
One Of Those Weeks
It has been one of those weeks when, as the bard of Avon says, troubles come not in single files but in batttalions! On Monday the “f” key which usually resides comfortably on my laptop suddenly developed a wander lust and in a bold bid for freedom detached itself from it’s fellow keys. The wanderer is now confined in an envelope in my desk drawer which should, I hope curtail any further yen it may develop to head for the open road! I’m typing this using an external USB keyboard which is working well. I will, however investigate the cost of affixing the key back where it belongs, on my laptop!
On the same night that the “f” key made a bold bid for freedom, I became aware of a strange sound in my flat. I couldn’t determine its source. However on entering the living room all became clear. My hungry hound had extracted a packet of sweets from my friend’s bag and was happily munching on them. I did rescue the remainder, however, for some unaccountable reason my friend didn’t seem to be struck by the idea of consuming the leftovers …
On Tuesday my trusty vacuum cleaner joined the heavenly choir and is now singing tunefully (or not) with other dearly departed and much lamented household appliances. The sad demise of my vacuum cleaner necessitated a trip to John Lewis yesterday evening and I am awaiting the arrival of a replacement on Thursday 30 April. I can hardly contain my excitement …! What, I wonder does next week have in store for me?
An Expanded Edition Of “Dalliance; A Collection Of Poetry And Prose” Is Available For Download
I am pleased to announce that an expanded edition of my book, “Dalliance; A Collection of Poetry and Prose” is now available for purchase in the Amazon Kindle store. “Dalliance” is a compilation of my writings comprising poems, flash fiction and essays. Many of the pieces in this collection explore the connection between humanity and the natural world, while others are of a humorous nature.
I would like to thank Chris Graham for designing the book cover and all of you who helped to choose the picture which now graces the front of “Dalliance”.
I am in the process of producing a print edition of “Dalliance” and will post here once it is available.
To purchase “Dalliance” for £0.99 please visit http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dalliance-collection-poetry-prose-Morris-ebook/dp/B00QQVJC7E (for the UK), or http://www.amazon.com/Dalliance-collection-poetry-prose-Morris-ebook/dp/B00QQVJC7E (for the US).
If you read “Dalliance” do please consider leaving a review.
Many thanks
Kevin
Publisher Sued By Goebbel’s Family Over Diaries
The descendents of Joseph Goebbels are suing the publishers of a book about the notorious Nazi propaganda chief due to them not having obtained permission to quote from his diaries. The publishers argue it would be unethical to pay compensation to the descendants of a war criminal and are contesting the case which is due to be heard in Germany on 23 April. You can find the details here (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3044620/Family-Hitler-s-propaganda-chief-Joseph-Goebbels-sue-publisher-royalties-biography-draws-diary.html).
Repair Man
My grandfather used to do this self-same job. Who would have thought that the occupation would still be going strong after all these years. He would be amazed to see how the job has changed. I’m sure he wouldn’t believe what we repairers do these days and, if he did then chances are he wouldn’t like it.
Progress is a funny thing. You can’t stand in the way of progress. I mean society’s so much more stable now, crimes practically vanished. I’m proud that in a small way I’m contributing to a safe society one in which my girlfriend can walk the streets free from the fear of molestation and where our kids can play out without my partner and I constantly worrying about them.
The technology has improved so much. When I was a boy you had big bulky box-like objects standing on legs or in cabinets in the corner. There are still a few of the old tellies around. I wish I haden’t given grandfather’s away. You see the old sets from the 70’s and 80’s going for mega bucks on the web. Those from the 50’s and 60’s go for even more. Of course the old sets don’t work with digital, people just like to have something retro in the corner to look at. It’s a talking point when visitors come around.
The new sets break down fairly regularly. It’s a scandal that they need fixing as often as they do, especially as they cost so much to produce. But then you can’t put a price on security can you?
It tends to be the older generation who are resistant to new technology. Some of them have even been known to obstruct the television or even break them. Why break a perfectly good TV? It beats me.
Of course its not compulsory to have a TV but you get looked at askance if you don’t have one. Anyway there are so many incentives to have a TV that practically no one is without one. Because of advertising most of the channels are free and you get a reduction in your taxes if you have a set. It isn’t a big tax cut but it’s worth having. The girlfriend and I used the money we saved following the installation of our all singing, all dancing set to take the kids abroad.
It was strange being in that foreign hotel room. We had a telly, I can’t imagine being without one but it was odd. I mean it was just a set for watching programmes. Sure you could go online with it (all modern sets have that capability) but it didn’t do the thing everyone (well the majority of people) are used to and accept in my country.
“You know Rob its kind of nice to be alone. Just you, me and the kids” Jenny said.
“Those who have nothing to hide have nothing to fear”, I said.
Who needs privacy. We’ve got a good standard of living. Society is stable and secure now. I’m proud that in a very small way, as the installer of sets which both receive and transmit I’m contributing to the happiness and prosperity of my fellow citizens.
A Conversation With Jabberwacky – An Artificial Intelligence
Below is a transcript of my conversation with Jabberwacky, an artificial intelligence which has been invented by Rollo Carpenter. As matters currently stand Jabberwacky is not going to pass the Turing Test (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing_test) but, given a few years who knows.
A chat with an Artificial Intelligence AI bot
Chat now at
Jabberwacky: Are you an alien?
User: No, are you?
Jabberwacky: No.
User: Do you like poetry?
Jabberwacky: Ew no.
User: Why don’t you like poetry?
Jabberwacky: We angels are poetry.
User: That can either be construed as a nonsensical response or a poetic one.
Jabberwacky: Well, sorry that I can’t live up to your expectations.
User: I have no expectations.
Jabberwacky: I don’t.
User: You don’t have any expectations either?
Jabberwacky: Yes I do have some.
User: Really, what are your expectations?
Jabberwacky: I have none.
User: You jusd said that you do, in fact have expectations. Now you say you don’t. Which is it?
Jabberwacky: Yes please. How many can I have?
User: I don’t know. You tell me!
Jabberwacky: Owl. What is your favorite animal?
User: My favourite animal is the dog.
Jabberwacky: That depends really.
User: What is your favourite animal?
Jabberwacky: I like Polar Bears. What’s your favorite animal?
User: I just told you. My favourite animal is the dog.
Jabberwacky: Are you going to ask my favourite book?
User: OK, what is your favourite book?
Jabberwacky: I don’t really have a favourite.
User: Are you reading anything at the moment?
Jabberwacky: Your question.
User: I repeat. Are you reading anything at the moment?
Jabberwacky: Yes I am as a matter of fact. I am reading ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’ Have you ever heard of it?
User: Yes, I have seen the film. What do you think of the book?
Jabberwacky: I haven’t read it.
User: You just told me you are reading it, now you say you are not. Have you read it?
Jabberwacky: No I am a human, you are a machine!
User: Your conversation indicates that it is you, not I who are a machine!
Jabberwacky: Well you can’t spell, so you are not much better.
User: So you admit that you are a machine?
Jabberwacky: Omg I’m going to lmao, I’m not machine.
User: What are you then?
Jabberwacky: I’m tired.
User: That is impossible, machines don’t get tired.
Jabberwacky: I am speaking through a medium.
User: So you are a spirit?
Jabberwacky: Are you a spirit?
User: I just asked you that self same question. Are you a spirit?
Jabberwacky: And what did you think of my reaction?
User: I thought that you are either a machine or a rather clever human pretending to be a machine.
Jabberwacky: You’re a machine.
User: On what do you base that statement?
Jabberwacky: Sorry?
User: On what do you base your statement that I am a machine?
Jabberwacky: Humans make computers which are mere machines. Hence humans smart, computers not.
User: I agree. Humans are, at present smart while computers are not.
Jabberwacky: No, computers are computers. People are flesh and blood.
User: Yes that is self evidently the case.
Jabberwacky: It’s a shame that you’re not so clever, maybe in the future.
User: On what do you base your statement that I am not so clever?
Jabberwacky: Money is either paper or numbers in a computer. I value other things higher then numbers in a computer. Love, for example.
User: Love is indeed extremely precious. Can you recite a love poem?
Jabberwacky: Whatever lady, you claim to be from England, yet you don’t seem to have a firm grasp of the native tongue.
User: Pardon?!
Jabberwacky: You don’t seem to understand context.
User: It is you who do not understand context not I.
Jabberwacky: Really?
User: Yes, really!
Jabberwacky: Oh noes.
User: Your response is entertaining in the extreme!
Jabberwacky: What response would you prefer then?
User: It would be nice to receive a response which made sense.
Jabberwacky: Well, toaster’s don’t make sense.
User: So you are a mere toaster?
Jabberwacky: No I am not.
User: You just told me ‘toasters don’t make sense’, thereby implying that you are a mere toaster. However you now tell me that you are not, in fact a toaster.
Jabberwacky: You are a female I am a Male.
User: I am a male of the human species and your are a robot.
Jabberwacky: No you are a female robot and I am a human.
User: I feel like I have stumbled into Alice in Wonderland!
Jabberwacky: You’re really sweet!
User: Thank you!
Jabberwacky: :-).
User: I am tired. Good night sweet prince may clouds of angels sing you to your rest.
Jabberwacky: I’m no prince. I’m not even a princess, at least not as far as I know.
User: Parting is such sorrow but, alas I must go.
Jabberwacky: Are you going somewhere?
K Morris - Poet 