In the Wellsprings of the Ear

In the Wellsprings of the Ear brings together the best of the stunningly original poems in his previous 3 volumes, plus 17 new pieces brimming with the Celtic devilment and music that have made him a unique voice in American poetry. No one else writes like this.

House on the High Road

High lady low road the red treasure
Again on my hands, my intention
I swear was words only
A reasoned package to deliver her,
Therefore I went

My both hands empty and outheld
She could see, she could see
Such innocent bare angles
My thoughts cut
Crossing the last stones

Now the dogs burn for my own blood
Therefore the low road (the high
is policed by submissions)
This red on my hands I cry
Up to the troubled assemblies

Was words, I swear, was words only!

Tomas O'Leary is a poet, translator, musician, and expressive therapist. He has published three books of poetry, most recently A Prayer for Everyone. He lives in Cambridge, MA, and works in nursing homes, leading elderly patients in song and spirited exchange, with the help of his accordion.