New From Bombshelter Press:
SECRETS OF MY SEX
"This collection sparks with poems that are bright and fierce—comets cutting through the mundane."
– Bhargavi C. Mandava
Author, Where The Oceans MeetThese poems plunge us into the essence of female experience in a manner that is bold, intimate, and honest. The poet risks exposure by bringing to light issues of sexual shame and bliss, so that what has long been buried can be brought to light and healed, whether it be painful childhood lessons, the adolescent quest for identity and meaning, or the awakenings that marriage and motherhood inspire. Readers will be drawn to these pages filled with vivid imagery and surprising, humorous stories. Everything is given with open arms and unflinching candor. These unique and memorable poems remind us that human weakness and vulnerability are often wise and generous teachers.
"Bella Mahaya Carter's insightful journey into womanhood made me blush, laugh, cry and cackle like a joyful witch. In the end, this authentic and daring collection left me feeling grateful I was born female. It should be mandatory reading not just for our sisters and daughters, but more importantly, for our husbands and our sons."
– Maureen Muldoon
Writer/Director, Booby Trap
MESSA ROADIt happened on Messa Road,
at my friend, Lisa's, house.
She was the shyest girl
in our third grade class
so it was odd that we were friends.
I can't recall whether she encouraged me
or tolerated me,
but she had no problem
announcing my number to an audience
of teddy bears and dolls.
I stepped on the concrete stage
surrounded by grass
and sang Gypsy Rose Lee's
"Let Me Entertain You."
The mini skirt came off first.
I let it fall to my feet
and then kicked it onto the wisteria bush,
where it sat like a denim hat
over purple dreadlocks.
I spun around,
two braids flying as I whirled,
yanking my blouse apart,
the snaps opening all at once.
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