Introduction to Issue 98 Poetry
The collection of poems in this issue, though typically from all over the world, are exclusively from the United States. And though typically there’s a good mix of free verse and traditional poetry, it just happens that this issue is heavy on traditional forms (subverted or not): various sonnets, triolet, villanelle, pantoum, and a performance flash poem. We encourage all kinds of poetry that’s written with literary quality and depth with a speculative element. Enjoy the works from these talented poets:
The Triage Window Beneath the Lake
Veronica Tucker (Gilford, New Hampshire)
Sky, Fixed in Fire
KB Ballentine (Greeneville, Tennessee)
What More, Now?
David M. Schulz (Cedarville, California)
Warrior in Chains
Anna Cates (Wilmington, Ohio)
Apparent Horizon
AC Edwards (Morganton, North Carolina)
Open Up Your Eyes and See the Day
Greg Boettcher (St. Louis Park, Minnesota)
Cleanse My Soul, Renew Me, Lead Me into Hydration
Katharyn Machan (Ithaca, New York)
Verdant Incandescence
Kate Landishaw (Greenville, South Carolina)
All Work and No Play
Michael H. Payne (Balboa, California)
This Red Living Metal Baby
Heather A. Davis, Ph.D. (Maryville, Tennessee)
Abyss & Apex Poetry Editor, John C. Mannone
and Poet Laureate for the City of Oak Ridge (2026-2028)