Tess Barry (MA in English, University of Pittsburgh; and MFA in Creative Writing/Poetry, Carlow University) was shortlisted for the 2015 Manchester Poetry Prize (England/UK). Twice a finalist for North American Review’s James Hearst Poetry Prize and Aesthetica Magazine’s (England/UK) Poetry Award, she was also shortlisted for the 2014 Bridport Poetry Prize (England/UK). Her poems most recently appeared or are forthcoming in Mudfish Vol. 19, Cordite Poetry Review (Australia), The Woven Tale Press Literary and Arts Magazine (UK) and online at the Manchester Writing School’s website. Her most recent prose is available online at North American Review’s blog, where she has been a featured blogger. Barry is a Fellow of the Western Pennsylvania Writing Project and longtime member of Carlow University’s Madwomen in the Attic writing workshops. She teaches English, literature, and creative writing at Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Avalon Creek
Slung over one sturdy branch hung low but high enough Swing that rode June skies for months that flung us up and out Above cool awnings shaded trees swing that bent the back of oaks Thick rope wound tight knotted twine stolen from Clarence Weingartner’s barn Strung by brothers sworn enemies awful boys Frayed ends …