On an Island Surrounded by Water

Reflections on the British Isles

Fog obscured the channel today … I had no idea it would be the beginning of a very long stay.

As soon as I speak, I always get the question, "Where are you from?" My typical answer is, "California," where I grew up. I notice most of the time I don't even mention Britain. That is a disservice--the place shaped me more than know. The poems, vignettes, and stories from the UK in this book are an effort to acknowledge both place and experience.

Before I left, while on a trip to Venice, I found a handmade notebook, leather bound with paper perfect for ink and quill, as well as watercolor. So, I bought a fancy pen and a paint pallet. I needed to remember.