Only Dreaming Sky: Poems

“Poetry is really a weapon. It’s a spiritual weapon for the transformation of the world. And, of course, all my poems are love poems. The nicest thing in the world is to propagandize for love.”—Jack Hirschman

“Jack is a very American voice. He certainly aims to be the Voice-of-the-People—of course, he would define ‘the people’ in Marxist terms.”—Lawrence Ferlinghetti

In this unique collection of new and previously published work by San Francisco’s Poet Laureate Jack Hirschman, a lighter, humorous side of the award-winning poet is revealed. Even in his most ardent political pieces, Hirschman’s playful side shines through (“New World Odor”). Known for his commitment to social justice, Hirschman often frames ordinary urban moments with extraordinary clarity (“Folsom Prison Haiku”), gently guiding the reader to a new way of seeing. Also included are acerbic reflections on the fall of Communism (“Red-Baiter”), tender memorials for friends (“The Day Bobby Kaufman Died”), and melodious love poems (“A Woman’s Darkness”).