Al Hellus

This year saw the passing of Saginaw poet, Al Hellus. Also, this year saw the publication of Al's most recent book of poetry, How Much of Your Heart is Left? (Ridgeway Press). I've only just recently had a chance to look at some of the poems in the book, and I've been very impressed by their ability, like a koan, to take me somewhere unexpected and fruitful. I offer this by way of example:

Father's Day -- 2001

Last year, Paw,
I was walking down
Main Street,
South San Francisco
looking for you,
looking for me,
and found Marion
the bartender
& Old Crow
& Rolling Rock.

I stepped out
the back door and there,
far away,
was San Bruno Mountain
about the same distance
as you were. As you
still are.
But it was there --
rock & earth
& green.

I didn't need
to touch it,
didn't need to feel it
under my feet.


I'm not finding a web presence for Ridgeway Press, but it looks like you can order Al's book by sending a $12.00 check (payable to Ridgeway Press) to:

Ridgeway Press
P.O. Box 120
Roseville, MI 48066