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 orphanage, eggshell, vile, and summon. Below are the resulting selected poems.

If you would like to participate in the next special poetry assignment, the new words are amulet, physician, dare, and vertical.

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

 

Two Word Poems
 
I love your art,
your treasure's a delight, but
I won't miss your vile philosophy.  
 
Ray Templeton

 

Lost in the System
 
Eggshells
on the table,
vile gruel in cracked bowls  
 
Deborah P. Kolodji

 

Oliver Twisted
 
When I think orphanage,
I think browns and greys,
I think pine trees
and tv trays  
 
Natalie Kring

 

Bird Girl
 
Pigeons swoop
in a greedy cloud, and I know that you
have summoned them  
 
Jennifer Finstrom