How Unruly is the one-step-forward-one-step-back dance of life? We do this for every major decision we make and some small ones too. Those in marriages and partnerships dine out on this behavior! So the Muses turned a gimlet eye on music and poetry/prose that offers a glimpse into the topic. We barely scratched the surface, but enjoyed the seesawing, the jawboning, the up-and-downing of it all. So enjoy a deep dive into the world of “yes but no” and let rumination and head-shaking abound!
Song 1: “Before the Magi” (John V. Modaff, sung by The Woman of Mystery)
Poem 1: “Occupied” by Scott Wiggerman. His new collection, Beginning and Ending with Emily, came out Spring of 2026 with Casa Urraca Press. Scott lives in Albuquerque and is a painter and a poet. https://scottwiggerman.myportfolio.com/
Fiction: excerpt from The Surrogate by Lynn C. Miller, published March 31, 2026 from University of Wisconsin Press. Available on major platforms or order from your local bookstore. www.lynncmiller.com
Feed the Cat Break: “Song of the Owl” (by John V. Modaff)
Poem 2: “There Was…Pause” by Barbara Rockman whose book NIGHT SAID is in press for fall of 2026 from the University of New Mexico Press.
Song 2: “Never Give Up” (John Modaff, with Dan Modaff on guitar leads)
Episode artwork by Lynda Miller
Theme & Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMI
Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY
Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead, KY
NEXT UP on Episode 59: Peace