Lynore's Story

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       I began to write poetry seriously during a 1981 ferry crossing and train trip from England to France, where I was living with my husband and three children. A change of scene, a change of dreams, and reflections on the past all enhanced my perceptions. That year I had time alone to walk through city and countryside, to pay attention to new and unique settings, and to enhance my imagination.

As I continued to write over the years, I became more aware of the early influences on my poetry: a post-war Southern California childhood with the steadiness of a small town and neighborhood; a setting with hills, trees, pets, and the beginnings of life-long friendships. Building a family and moving to different communities had a profound impact on me. And religion – both conservative and progressive – left its mark. As many years passed, I absorbed the impact of inevitable change, with its losses and strength.

Having begun my working life as elementary school teacher, I later took on leadership roles in several organizations, eventually earning a master’s degree in clinical social work and practicing for many years in community mental health and clinical therapy. Over those years I gave poetry readings in libraries, cafes, and academic conferences. A 1987 four-month train trip through Europe in the Soviet era refreshed my imagination and insights. Poetry from these decades speaks of time spent in other countries and of family transitions including children growing up, divorce, and supporting challenging aging parents. 

In 2007, I returned to live in a supportive neighborhood in Northern California where I continue to write along with being an active grandparent, gardener, and community volunteer.

Through these years, as I have taken more than a backward glance at my life, I have looked forward and learned and re-learned that at every turn the world offers the material of poetry.