Rob Ayling, yer Gonzo Grande Fromage, writes:
"Thom the World poet is an old mate of mine from way back in my history. Even pre-dating Voiceprint, when I was running "Otter Songs" and Thom's poetry tapes and guest appearances with Daevid Allen, Gilli Smyth and Mother Gong are well known and highly regarded. It just felt right to include a daily poem from Thom on our Gonzo blog and when I approached him to do so, he replied within seconds!!! Thom is a great talent and just wants to spread poetry, light and positive energy across the globe. If we at Gonzo can help him do that - why not?"
WHEN WE WENT TO PRISON
to do writing workshops with inmates
They were selected so no violent offenders attended
and a publication of prison writings ensued-TURNSTYLE
I was young and urged the social workers to secure these writers release
They did, and several of our prison writers gained their freedom
We called them POETS not CONVICTS-but freedom was a hard road for them
They stole ,raped and ripped off those who had worked on their behalf
At the same time-they were brilliant writers, our Francois Villons, our Papillons..
It was the quality of their writings as well as our recommendations secured their release
They saw us as foolish and naive. Chose poetry as a sideshow to criminality.
Eventually, one was deported back to England. The other back in prison, where he attempted suicide.
I no longer offer poetry for prisoners .I have served my time. Am on CONDITIONAL RELEASE
So i do not make the same mistake-twice.
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