Poets

I'm an artist with a comprehensive web site (www.harart.com) that shows my paintings, drawings, and cartoons. It also includes a free, easy 16-lesson acrylic painting course.

I was first exposed to poetry in high school, attracted to Emily Dickinson's intelligence, spiritual independence, and creative passion. I admire other poets too, especially those whose humor shows thru (e.g. Ogden Nash, Dorothy Parker) . I've written an article, A lesson from the life of Emily Dickinson: http: //www.harart.com/hartext/emily.html

I occasionally wrote humorous poems on birthday cards and special occasions over the years. Starting in 2005 I began writing poetry fairly often as a creative outlet.

I also have a progressive Christian website, 'The Lord is Near.' (www.thelordisnear.net) I'm not a churchgoer, but I've written several articles with my own take on spiritual and topical issues. However, I've found poetry to be a more concise and creative way to express my thoughts and feelings on any idea that interests me.

I grew up in Oregon City, Oregon, the 9th of 10 kids in a German-American household. We were poor but took pride in our German work ethic. My parents both suffered at times from mental illness (due to poverty, stress, the responsibility of caring for a large family, genetics, and misapplied religion, I believe) and were hospitalized twice. Both my parents were intelligent (8th grade educations) , hard workers, and enjoyed music and humor.

I loved ..