June 2025 was Filled with Joy

June culminated with nominations, a few online performances, several poems published and 20 spoken word tracks in conjunction with Legendary Ink. Here are my updates.

Verse-Virtual
My poem, Take Your Flowers, was published by Verse-Virtual.

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The June issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine is out! Toyer Fahie is on pages 5 and 6. I’m on page 10 with My Love for BVI Culture and page 22 with Our Treasure. Find Nelly Vee on pages 11, 19 and 23. There’s some great work by Klassy Poet, Tiffany Mariie, Lisa Lipps Davis and other talented poets.

Whispers of Spring's Serenade
My poem, Fruit on the Vines, was selected for the Whispers of Spring's Serenade. 

Micromance Magazine
My short story, The One-Year Wait, was published by Micromance Magazine. I’d love to hear you feedback on this story. 

Virgin Islands Artist Feature - Scrouge

My featured artist for June was Scrouge. Click here for the article.

2nd Place Poem Dedicated to Toyer Fahie

Please read my second place poem in the IPC Poetry Contest (tied with Henry Jones) about my fellow Virgin Islands poet, Toyer Fahie. 

Nominations

1. National Spoken Word Awards: I’ve been nominated for the National Spoken Word Awards for Best International Artist. Please vote for me: https://shout.com/s/iXedCkDb/i/2313049
2. The Virgin Islands Icon Awards: I was nominated for The Vrgin Islands Icon Award in the category of Writing and Publishing.

I am very grateful for the nominations and votes.

The Writer's Block Poetry Collective
On May 30, 2025, I performed during the The Writer's Block Poetry Collective presents... Mz.KIR's online open mic part 3. I performed Blood Rose and The Receipt for Making Me. 

June 6, 2025 Readings

• Calling All Poets Series: The phenomenal featured poets were Holly Iglesias, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram and Arthur Russell. I shared Rent and Afraid of My Shadow. View the reading here: https://youtu.be/7n4PYHZBSvs?si=aI8V0zH0mawyJsce
• Live with Mz.KIR podcast: I particpated in the Live with Mz.KIR podcast and shared Arrest and Oversexualized. View the session here: https://youtu.be/XtF9aqitaz0?si=_gCOBHnJCOrgpPHK

Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal Readings

• I performed People I've Met Along the Way at the June 2025 Poetry Reading and Roundtable online reading on June 7, 2025. 
• I shared my poem, Deny, at the June 8, 2025 reading which was held to showcase the work of the poets in the Lost Love anthology. This poem was written in October 2024 for the Worcesteshire Lit Fringe Promptober Challenge and is dedicated to my mother who passed on October 1, 2018.

Keeping the Flame Magazine
My poem, Filtration, was published in the Keeping in the Flame Magazine.

Otherwise Engaged A Literature and Arts Journal
I have three poems, Images, Pure and Peace and Revival, published in Otherwise Engaged A Literature and Arts Journal Volume 15. 

Lit eZine Vol 8
My poem, Floating Ghosts, was published in Lit eZine Vol 8.

Let's Po-et
On Saturday, June 28, 2025, I joined Nita Chase and her amazing team, Nuri and Stephanue and shared Collaboration State of Mind and Vibes. 

June Video Uploads

I have been sharing weekly reel on my social media pages. Here are some that are shared on YouTube.

• Fears: https://youtube.com/shorts/7TW4R1Ch6sA
• For Real: https://youtube.com/shorts/IevY26kUR44
• My Delight: https://youtube.com/shorts/Q-xg7w6UmRA
• Not for the Weak: https://youtube.com/shorts/U95QC2Ff7Ak

Spoken Word Collaborations with Legendary Ink

We continue to prepare some sumptious dishes in the literary kitchen. Take a listen!

1. Oh My God: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/oh-my-god-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
2. Jezebels: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/jezebels-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Got 2 Be There: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/got-2-be-there-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
4. Blood Rose: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/blood-rose-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Afraid of My Shadow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/afraid-of-my-shadow-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
6. Perfect Stranger: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/perfect-stranger-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
7. Lay Your Body Down: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/lay-your-body-down-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. I Gambled on Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-gambled-on-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. A House is Not a Home: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/a-house-is-not-a-home-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
10. You Belong to Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/you-belong-to-me-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
11. Time Waits for No One: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/time-waits-for-no-one-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
12. I Cannot Function: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-cannot-function-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. The Beautiful Sunset: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-beautiful-sunset-la-rabsatt-vocals
14. Love Sounds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-sounds-la-rabsatt-vocals
15. Cold: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/cold-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Love Crimes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-crimes-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Vibes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/vibes-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. Dust and Echoes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/dust-echoes-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Save Her: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/save-her-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Web of Desire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/web-of-desire-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Light Pulse: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/light-pulse-la-rabastt-c-double34-music-vocals

New Poem: Tight Curls

if these strands tangle
it will take too much time
to clear the mane
one knot is enough
to cause catastrophe
leaving uneven tresses
in this frustrating process
that’s not for the
faint of heart
or the ones with
softer texture
to manage
it takes care and patience
to lovingly handle
every lock with care
so that each wisp
stays in place
even when the tightest curl
tends to unfurl
at its own beckoning
it’s beautiful to see
a full mane
tamed or untamed
suited to the wearer

© Linette Rabsatt 6-29-2025

July should be more exciting with my participation in an event in St. Thomas, The Virgin Islands Icon Awards on July 6 and more work published.

May 2025 - 50 Spoken Word Tracks, Anthologies and more

The Beautiful Virgin Islands (BVI)

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The May 2025 Edition of Pulse Poetry Magazine marked our one year anniversary. My poems, A Lit Candle and Literal Fire can be found on pages 10 and 11. Nelly Vee's poems are on pages 12-14.

Calling All Poets Series
The May 2, 2025 edition of Calling All Poets Series had feature readers Jared Harel, Nancy Shih-Knodel, and Kathy Welda.

VOICES UNBOUND (An International Anthology of Poetry)
My poem, I am a Butterfly, was selected for Voices Unbound.

Ode to Chocolate Anthology
My poem, Chocolate, was selected for the Ode to Chocolate Anthology. You can grab the Kindle or paperback version. Thanks to Tim Saunders for publishing my work.

Interview with West Indian Women Network
I was interviewed by the West Indian Women Network along with the first place winner of the
Tell Yuh Story Competition, Carlana Neverson. I placed second with my story, A Paltry Poultry Tale.

Caribbean Poetry Magazine
My poem, Carifesta X from 2008, was published by Caribbean Poetry Magazine.

Virgin Islands Artist Feature
May's featured artist was Lion Dre, a talented artist from St. Croix. He has shared his upcoming projects, inspiration and insights with me. He has new music on the way so please subscribe to his pages.

Like Naked Truths Anthology

Roses in Bloom, originally published by Micromance Magazine, has been published in the Like Naked Taunts anthology.

Cultivating Voices Poetry Wild Card Open Mic
On May 18, 2025, I shared the virtual stage with several talented poets at the Cultivating Voice Poetry Wild Card Open Mic. I'm on from 53:20 sharing two pieces, Velvet and If I Wrote You a Song.

Lost Love Anthology
My Poem, Deny, written in honor of my mother, was published in the Lost Love anthology compiled by Orenaug Mountain Publishing.

IPC Poetry Contest
I tied for second in the IPC Poetry Contest! The better news is that my entries were about two amazing poets, our very own talented Toyer Fahie, and Mike Jurkovic, Poet Laureate and part of the Calling All Poets Series team.

The Writer's Block Poetry Collective
On May 30, 2025, I was live on The Writer's Block Poetry Collective along with some other awesome poets including North Philly's Finest, Maya Da Bee, Ladycrucible MistressofMayhem, Heavenly Harmonies and Miriam Buttlerfly Hall.

Legendary Ink Spoken Word Collaborations

This month was amazing! I can't believe that we churned out 50 tracks. Thank you to Mario Franklin and Clarence Ferguson, Jr. for believing in me.

1. Take and Never Give: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/take-and-never-give-part-1-la-rabsatt-vocals
2. Stranger Moon: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/stranger-moon-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Leave Me Alone: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/leave-me-alone-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
4. I'm Sorry: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/im-so-sorry-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Shackled: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/shackled-part-1-l-a-rabsatt-c
6. My Calling: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/my-calling-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
7. Enigma: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/enigma-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. I Breathe You In: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-breathe-you-in-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. Hearts of Fire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hearts-of-fire-part-1-la-rabsatt-vocals
10. Your Heart Spoke My Name: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/your-heart-spoke-my-name-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
11. More Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/more-love-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
12. Serpent: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/serpent-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. Love Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-me-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
14. Dangerous Game: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/a-dangerous-game-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
15. Here Comes the Boom: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/here-comes-the-boom-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Fake News: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fake-news-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Deep Inside: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/deep-inside-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. I'm No Devil: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/im-no-devil-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Love Jones: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-jones-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Kiss of Death: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/kiss-of-death-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Fallen Sky: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fallen-sky-la-rabsatt-vocals
22. Hearts of Fire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hearts-of-fire-remix-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
23. Death of Chivalry: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/death-of-chivalry-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
24. Sex Appeal: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/sex-appeal-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
25. Galaxy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/galaxy-part-1-l-a-rabsatt-c
26. Here We Go Again: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/here-we-go-again-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
27. Oversexualized: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/oversexualized-part-1-l-a
28. Shattered: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/shattered-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
29. Watch Out for Witchcraft: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/watch-out-for-witchcraft-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
30. Half Crazy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/half-crazy-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
31. Solid Gold: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/solid-gold-episode-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
32. Pray 4 Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/pray-4-me-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
33. Victim in the Mirror: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/victim-in-the-mirror-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
34. La Isla Bonita: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/la-isla-bonita-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
35. If I Wrote You a Song: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/if-i-wrote-you-a-song-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
36. Joined Together: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/joined-together-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
37. Calm and Collected: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/calm-and-collected-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
    
38. Raised by Wolves: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/raised-by-wolves-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
39. Single Flower: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/single-flower-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
40. Unearthly Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/unearthly-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
41. Clouds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/clouds-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
42. Love Track: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-track-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
43. What You Bring to the Table: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/what-do-you-bring-to-the-table-la-rabsatt-vocals
44. Quiet Sorrow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/quiet-sorrow-shattered-remix-la-rabsatt-vocals
45. Chained to Foolery: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/chained-to-foolery-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
46. Fragile: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fragile-la-rabsatt-vocals
47. Fairweather Friend: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fairweather-friend-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
48. Alone Together: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/alone-together-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
49. All Money Ain't Good Money: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/all-money-aint-good-money-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
50. Still Hurting: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/still-hurting-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals

New Poem: Housing Woes

singing toilet
hisses with no swishes

pop, drop, pop
the kitchen faucet murmurs

while the bathroom faucet
drips, drips, drips

clogged bathtub
holding all the hair in

it must be indoor weather season
my house has its own tornado of issues

© Linette Rabsatt 5-30-2025

Creative Waves Performance on May 31, 2025

Please visit the JR O'Neal Botanical Gardens between 4:00 to 7:00 pm and support this event. There will be lots of performances including poetry. Poets will have a station by the fountain where we will share poems. Toyer Fahie and I will share perform on the main stage around 6:15 pm.

April 2025 - New Collaborations and Content

April is National Poetry Month (US). It was an interesting month. I had quite a few rejections from publishers. However, as my granny would have said - when one door closes, another opens. I linked with two extraordinary poets and I am enjoying creating spoken word recordings. Also, I participated in a poetry challenge in Papi's Poetry Corner MVP which required poets to post a video daily. I was inspired and started sharing daily poetry reels on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Here's my April report.

Everscribe Magazine
My poem, Needing Someone, has been published in Issue No. 7, Littera Novus, of Everscribe Magazine. It’s on page 58. https://everscribemag.com/issue-7

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The April 2025 issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine features I Owe a Poem on page 5 and Fears on pages 11 and 12. Other Virgin Islands poets include Akin Chinnery of page 4, Toyer Fahie on page 17 and Nelly Vee on pages 24, 25 and 26.

Calling All Poets Series
April 4, 2025: The April 4 edition of Calling All Poets Series online reading had feature performances by Janet Kaplan and Ethan Sirotko. I shared hollow grave and a lit candle during the open mic.

The Fertile Brains
April 6, 2025: I shared Healthy Choices - Healthy Community at this reading.

Cultivating Voices Live Poetry
April 6, 2025: The features were Pam Muller, Rachael Stanley and Damien Donnelly. I shared Some Memories Fade during the open mic section.

Micromance Magazine Poetry Month Feature
Micromance Magazine featured me for National Poetry Month. Hear my story, insights and words of encouragement to writers. There’s also a new poem inspired by an ekphrastic prompt from Allie Poetry.

Artist Feature
Ramon G: Shout out to Ramon G for sharing his knowledge, insights and words of wisdom with me! 
I-Bari: Shout out to I-Bari for agreeing to be interviewed and sharing his personal insights.

Tell Yuh Story - 2nd Place
I placed 2nd in the West Indian Woman Network’s Tell Yuh Story competition held on March 20, 2025. My story, A Paltry Poultry Tale, is about the chickens that visit my yard. Let me know what you think of the story!

St. Petersburg Library System
St. Petersburg Library System shared my poem, Bookshelf for National Poetry Month and National Library Week.

Silence is Consent
Three of my poems were selected for this anthology, Time to Act, Still Buzzing and Accept the Exception.

The Zest of Lemon
My poem, Drive, was selected for The Zest of Lemon anthology.

Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic
I performed at the Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic on April 24, 2025 along Kevin Grant, Emanual Cole and other awesome poets. I shared Have You Heard.

Let's Po-et

I shared the virtual stage with the talented Nita Chase on her show, Let's Po-et on April 26, 2025. Of course, Stephanie Piper and Nuri Desvigne brought their usual positive energy to the stage.

Sense and Sensibility
One of my haikus was selected for the Sense and Sensibility Haiku Journal.

Legendary Ink Recordings
I collaborated with Mario Franklin and Clarence Ferguson Jr on some poetry tracks. I love that we are not in the same part of the world but have been able to meld our voices to create these collaborative peices.

1. Maybe Tomorrow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/maybe-tomorrow-the-infamous-strategy-la-rabsatt-vocals
2. Love Birds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-birds-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Hollow Grave: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hollow-grave-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music
4. Fallen: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fallen-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Wolf and Moon: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/wolf-and-moon-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
6. Share My Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/share-my-love-part-1-c-double34-music-la-rabsatt-vocals
7. Guilty: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/guilty-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. The World is Yours: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-world-is-yours-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. You Can't Buy My Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/you-cant-buy-my-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
10. Lionesses Uncaged, Volume 3, On The Loose Cypher Intro: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/lionesses-uncaged-volume-3-on-the-loose-cypher-intro-presented-by-c-double34-music-98134-bpm
11. I Wish It Would Rain: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-wish-it-would-rain-legendary-ink-vocals
12. Since I Lost My Baby: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/since-i-lost-my-baby-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. Slither: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/slither-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
14. Idle Hands: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/idle-hands-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
15. You're Beautiful: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/youre-beautiful-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Someone to Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/someone-to-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Heating Up: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/heating-up-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. Broken Glass: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/broken-glass-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Stop Disrespecting Yourself for Likes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/stop-disrespecting-yourself-for-likes-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Harmonizing Ecstasy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/harmonizing-ecstasy-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Love No More: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-no-more-la-rabsatt-vocals
22. Let Me Stay on Your Mind: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/let-me-stay-on-your-mind-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
23. Voices in My Head: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-voices-in-my-head-la-rabsatt-vocals
24. Love's A Gamble: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/loves-a-gamble-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
25. Do What I Gotta Do: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/do-what-i-gotta-do-l-a-rabsatt

New Poem

This poem was inspired by a prompt from Allie Poetry on Facebook.

Take Your Flowers

this orange carnation

is just a gift

a metaphor

of the fixation

that I’ve had on you

an abnormal cliché

for me just to say

that you are unique

and all the critiques

don’t measure up

they’re just jealous

but I think you’re luscious

and just what I need

in my life

let me be your wife

and love you

intensely

not just for one day

but forever

© Linette Rabsatt 4-30-2025

I hope to continue inspiring the world with my words!

March 2025: An Incredible Journey of Poetry Promotion

March 2025 was incredible. I had several poems published and numerous performances, including a feature. My article on a featured local artist will appear in early April.

Zartaar Lit
Zartaar Lit is a new literary magazine and they selected Living My Story and sultry schemes for the inaugural issue in February 2025.

Verse-Virtual
Verse-Virtual selected The Path of Clarity for the March 2025 edition.

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The March 2025 Edition of Pulse Poetry Magazine included two of my pieces, Endurance and Impact, in there. Check out this edition which features Toyer Fahie (pages 3 and 4), Nelly Vee (pages 20 and 21) and many more talented poets. There are some erotic pieces throughout the magazine.

Feature on The Inter-Viewer
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, I was interviewed by Laxman Rao from The Fertile Brains team. The interview was very natural and flowed seamlessly. I was very comfortable and again, very humbled to even be considered. We spoke about my poetic journey and the poems in Be Inspired: Poems by Linette Rabsatt (Kindle). I performed Proud and Out Loud, one of the pieces in the book. Do share your feedback in the comments.

Orenaug Mountain Publishing Online Reading
I participated as a featured reader in the March 1, 2025 reading hosted by the Orenaug Mountain Publishing. I shared four pieces, Temptation and Living from my earlier writings, The Ladder of Hope which was written in February 2025 and Music Calls Me written on the same day.

The Fertile Brains Open Recital

• March 2, 2025: I shared two pieces, Reciprocation and The Star's Tale, from 1:56:21 close to the end of the event.
• March 9, 2025: I shared To a Grand Lady from 1:18:40.
• March 16, 2025: I shared A Writing Tale from 59:20.
• March 23, 2025: I shared Do You Mind if I Touch Your Pen

Cultivating Voice Live Poetry Readings

• March 2, 2025: I was able to share Indecision during the open mic portion of the Cultivating Voice Live Poetry Reading on March 2, 2025. The focus was on the body with the publisher, editors, and contributors of the anthology, Braving the Body.
• March 23, 2025: I shared Do You Mind if I Touch Your Pen during the Fifth Anniversary reading.

Papi's Poetry Corner
I joined Papi's Poetry Corner along with some other talented female poets on March 6, 2025. The vibe was authentic, inspiring and energetic. Please ensure that you watch this show!

Calling All Poets Series
I performed during the Calling All Poets Series March 7, 2025 reading which featured Joann Deiudicibus, Thomas Festa and Julian Matthews.

Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal
Thank you to Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal for the opportunity to grace the virtual stage on March 1, 2025! See the full video of my performance here.

Fire & Dust Zoom Around the World
I was invited to perform at the Fire & Dust Zoom Around the World on March 13, 2025. I had a great time sharing with poets from around the world. I shared 15 pieces spanning my earlier to recent works.

Renga Competition 2nd Place
I participated in a Renga poem competition with Aleks Hannibal from Trinidad and Tobago and we placed 2nd! The competition was hosted by KVI Network Creations LLC. 

World Poetry Day 2025

Read about my fun activities on March 21, 2025! I had a blast!

Let's Po-et
I was live with the Let's Po-et team on March 22, 2025 led by the fabulous Nita Chase and co-hosts Stephanie Catlin Piper and Nuri Desvigne! Nelly Vee and I shared along with all the awesome poets that blessed the mic. I performed re-birth and Not On Our Own.

New Video: The Garden Life

I originally shared this poem, The Garden Life, with The Bounty Brunch Podcast Episode: Spring Clean. I decided to close off March 2025 with this recording which has footage of my garden and produce in 2024 and 2025. Feedback always welcomed!

DoubleSpeak Magazine

DoubleSpeak Magazine was one of the first publications to share my work. I am very grateful for See It and Freedom being published in the Fourth Anniversary issue. They are both older pieces but have great significance to our journey as a people. Six photos were also selected.

Collaborative Poem

Technology today proves that you don't have to be in the same region or country to collaborate. Here is Maybe Tomorrow by The Infamous Strategy & I on the vocals. Thank you to Clarence Ferguson Jr. for putting this together. Here are the words to my piece.

Maybe Tomorrow

Some days you didn’t hold me at all

I remember the days you didn’t answer my calls

Even though I had some stumbles and falls

You left me stranded - face down and sprawled

Instead of loving me, you put up walls

And I was stupid because I was still willing to crawl

Back crying to beg you to stick around

Even when my heart had again fallen to the ground

And tears fall from my eyes – yet I make no sound

Distressed because I see that you have found

A new love interest who you think is better

But I see she is just another empty headed go-getter

You left me for her so now I’m the ‘regretter’

Sad and lonely - a broke love investor

Who fell too quickly for a man that didn’t love me

Blinded, broken and very unable to see

Maybe tomorrow but most likely never

It’s going to take a miracle for me to feel better

Maybe tomorrow you may come my way

Love’s unpredictable is all that I can say

© Linette Rabsatt

Poem: The Garden Life by Linette Rabsatt

I originally shared this poem, The Garden Life, with The Bounty Brunch Podcast Episode: Spring Clean. I decided to close off March 2025 with this recording which has footage of my garden and produce in 2024 and 2025.

World Poetry Day 2025 was a Blast!

Display at Highland Library

World Poetry Day 2025 went something like this:

• 3 schools visited: Elmore Stoutt High School, Francis Lettsome Primary School and Willard Wheatley Primary School
• 5 presentations: including Grades K, 1st and 9th
• Online Reading: Oooh Beehive with Clive Oseman and some other awesome talents including Ashley Edge, Kate Jenkinson and Charlotte Faulconbridge
• 4 poems composed!
• My information is being shared in the Highland Library in Kansas.
• I was listed as a Caribbean breakout poet by Tropical Literature Creatives.
• 7 Virgin Islands poets' voices were aired on ZBVI and ZROD

1. Toyer Fahie
2. Kedrick Malone
3. Nikiesha McMaster
4. Justin Hodge
5. Nelly Vee
6. Akin Chinnery
7. Linette Rabsatt

Sharing an acrostic poem with the students

School Visits

My intention was to inspire the children with positive words and encouragement. I prepared by choosing age appropriate poetry and techniques to get them involved. I used their participation, acrostic poetry, visuals, musically infused poetry, rhyme and relatable themes to keep them interested, despite their ages. I really hope that they were inspired! Two special poems were Go Light Our Way and Rainbow because I created visuals to help the children better understand how to use the acrostic technique.

Poem shared with the children. Do you see the special word?

Haikus for World Poetry Day 2025

unification
joining of liked minds and loves
bring peace into life

broken machine blues
some frustrated customers
the payday line blues

With Allison Flax-Archer, Secretary General, BVI National Commission for UNESCO

a glittered diamond
butterfly smiles with might
love personified

insecurities
halt, strip, hurt, break, blur, scrape, tear
progression stays stalled

Performing a poem that included the children's participation

poetry will lead

you back to your roots, culture
heritage – new love

Acrostic poem shared with matching photo

I am poetry

words personified through me

creative outlet

© Linette Rabsatt 3-21-2025

February 2025: The Ongoing Poetic Journey and a New Poem

February had its share of triumphs and rejections. I always say that for every poem a publication accepted, other publications rejected twenty others. I work harder and submit more. I've never been a quitter and will continue to push my pen.

Remember, these words from my poem, Revisited:

... words written

and hidden

are no use

share them and let someone peruse

Here is my journey for February 2025.

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The February issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine featured poems by Toyer Fahie, Nelly and I and the other awesome contributors. I shared Deny in honor of my mother and The Nurturer for those with love on their minds.

Louisiana Lyricists Lounge: Open Mic
I performed during the February 1, 2025 open mic hosted by Louisiana Lyricists Lounge. Special thanks to PAWCRAM da Poet for creating this venue. I shared Mama's Prayers from 11:29. This was the first open mic that PAWCRAM hosted and it was very well supported. The poets shared some heavy inspiration.

The Fertile Brains Open Mic
I joined The Fertile Brains Open Mic on February 2, 2025 and shared Inspiration, a poem inspired by a writing prompt in Papi's Poetry Corner MVP Facebook Group. I'm on from 44:08 until 45:41. The Fertile Brains Open Mic showcases poets from across the world. 

Talentourney Feature
Aleks Hannibal, a fellow poet from Trinidad and Tobago featured me on his webpage, Talentourney. He has been hosting writing competitions to encourge us to keep our inspiration flowing. Three of my pieces are featured, My Love's Locked Down, Yellow and Filled with Flaws.

Cultivating Voices Live Poetry
I shared Sight (CAPS Anthology) during the Cultivating Voices Live Poetry which featured Lynda VE Crawford and Indran Amirthanayagam, two well-traveled and published poets. 

Syncopation Literary Journal
My poem, Music Is, was published in the Syncopation Literary Journal on February 3, 2025. Follow the link and look for my name. This is one of my pieces from the archives.

Lucid Voices Black History Month Open Mic
I shared in the Lucid Voices Black History Month Open Mic, hosted by Adonis Richards. I shared My Thoughts on Black Love.

All Your Stories Magazine
My short story, A Bird's Life, was published in All Your Stories Magazine February 2025: Quick Reads and Memories. It's available on the magazine's website and Amazon (Kindle and printed).

Micromance Magazine
My poem, Sweet Lady, was published by Micromance Magazine. I was inspired by a writing prompt shared by Ashanti Taylor from Pulse Poetry Magazine to write a poem based on Sweet Lady by Tyrese Gibson.

Calling All Poets Series Reading
The February 7, 2025 session of Calling All Poets Series featured Megha Sood, Linda McCauley Freeman and Harvey Soss. I performed my poem, Pages to be Fulfilled, from 1:52:50 to 1:54:00 during the open mic. Open mic poets included Tom Holland, Heather Kays, Patricia Carragon, Richard Spisak, Rich Boucher and many more talents.

Ameslounge Interview
I am grateful for the interview with Andrea M. Echols of Ameslounge on February 8, 2025. I shared two pieces with her, Granny Said a Lot and De-Stress.

Highland Park Poetry
Shout out to Highland Park Poetry for featuring my poem, Subtle. Do let me know if you think it is subtle or frank!

Artist Feature: Diamond Plus
This month, I featured Diamond Plus, an artist from the Virgin Islands. Read more to learn about him and check out his sound.

WOC This Way for Poetry
My poem, Love and Affection, was published by WOC This Way for Poetry on February 14, 2025. It was written based on a prompt with Pressure's song, Love and Affection, as the inspiration.

February 16, 2025 Poetry Events
Inspired Poetry Corner
I had the honor of listenting to the featured poet, Stella Magal, at the Sunday at the Corner, hosted by the Inspired Poetry Corner. I was able to share two pieces during the open mic, Honeybee and Writer's Block. I'm on from 1:19:59. The entire reading was an awesome experience.

Cultivating Voice Live Poetry
I performed during the Wild Card Open Mic along with a group of talented poets from all over the world. I shared Honeybee and The Panther Within.

Silver Birch Press
My poem, Sweet, was shared by Silver Birch Press on February 16, 2025 in their series, My Favorite Things. Of course, it is an ode to my favorite tart filling, pineapple.

Haiku Feature
Thank you to St. Petersburg Library System for featuring my haiku on February 18, 2025.

New Video for Erase and Embrace
I've uploaded a new video, Erase and Embrace. The title was inspired by the talented Nita Chase. Please leave a comment with your feedback! Thank you for your kind support!

February 22-23 Readings
Let's Poet
I performed during the February 22 edition of Let's Poet with Nita Chase and some other amazing poets. I shared My Thoughts on Black Love and Stitched Love.

The Fertile Brains
I shared Fruit on the Vines and This Piece of Me during the February 23 edition of The Fertile Brains open-themed recital. Grateful to be performing with poets from India.

Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic
The February 23, 2025 edition of the Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic, hosted by Nakenyia Sheree Stokes, was a beautiful experience with feature poet, Vitamin D. Poets who graced the mic included De'Asia Thompson, Pawcram DaPoet and Emanuel Cole. I shared a tanka, This Escape, and a new piece, The Ladder of Hope.

Sense & Sensibility
My haiku was featured in Sense & Sensibility. Click the link for my piece and several others.

New Poem

This poem is a Renga and it was inspired by a prompt from Nelly Vee of KVI Network Creations, LLC.

Split Personalities

bury the hatchet

let go, forgive and forget

regret is wasteful

forgiveness – no, not this time

their lies hurt me to the core

turn the other cheek

just be the bigger person

you can still trust them

bitten already – no way

trust is out of the picture

give them one more chance

just continue to be nice

your good deeds will stand

not accepting disrespect

this nonsense must end today

© Linette Rabsatt 2-26-2025

Upcoming Interview

I have an interview on Saturday, March 1 at 8:00 pm IST which is 10:30 am BVI time. I will share the link.

January 2025 - New Energy, Work and Features

I have thoroughly enjoyed the 10 weeks of January 2025 (lol)! I've had work featured in several publications and was blessed to have a 30-minute Solo Poetry Recital hosted by The Fertile Brains. I am looking forward to doing more in February and I plan to have great fun!

Here's a chronology of what has happened in January 2025!

Pulse Poetry Magazine
My poems, Another Year (page 34) and I Envision (page 37), were published in the January 2025 issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine. Nelly Vee and Akin Chinnery are also in the Magazine.

Feed the Holy
Feed the Holy published two poems in January:

• * Every Day on January 2, and
• * We Say Yes on January 17.

Personal Freedom Anthology
My poem, Personal, was published in the Personal Freedom anthology by Orenaug Mountain Publishing. You can purchase a copy here: https://www.orenaugmountainpublishing.com/poetry-collections/personal-freedom.

My Eintou Poem
My eintou poem placed second in a competition! I entered two pieces and Love Heals placed second.

Rebirth Anthology
The anthology, Rebirth, features two of my poems, Re-birth and Break Through the Cracks. All proceeds will go to New Hope For Families in Bloomington, IN. You can find the paperback here https://a.co/d/6SPAiH0 and the hardcover here https://a.co/d/6o5Fr6H. Thank you to Walden Quinn Ceasar for having confidence in my work.

Literary Cocktail Magazine
Literary Cocktail Magazine accepted my photo, Morning Blues in its Fall 2024 issue.

Darkly Beautiful
Magique Publishing selected my piece, Dark Snowman, for the Darkly Beautiful publication. Dark Snowman is on page 12.

Synchronized Chaos
Synchronized Chaos published two of my pieces, A Day Out and Pack Mentality, on January 1, 2025.

Dem Dope Poets

• On January 7, I was the surprise guest on Dem Dope Poets, hosted by Kim Mosby Summers on Instagram. The 3 Goats and a Mic, the featured poets, delivered some powerful and impactful pieces. I shared Another Year. It was awesome being in their virtual company.
• I performed during Dem Dope Poets on Instagram Live hosted by Kim Mosby Summers on January 14 along with Pawcram and Gerronteed.

The Poet Heroic
My poem, Filled with Flaws was published by The Poet Heroic as the Poem of the Week on December 27, 2024. It's one of the pieces that I originally submitted to Visual Verse based on a photo prompt.

Calling All Poets Series
I performed during the Calling All Poets Series reading on Janaury 16, 2025 which featured LJ Sysko. I'm on from 1:39:44 to 1:42:41 sharing What is Next, Pack Mentality and A Walking Inspiration.

YouTube Upload
I wrote my poem, Indecision, based on a photo prompt. It's a piece that I had some fun with based on the image. 

January 19, 2025 Online Readings

• Verse Virtual: I attended the Verse Virtual Poetry Reading, which featured Page Starzinger and David Baker. I'm on during the open mic from 47:42 to 49:08 sharing two pieces, Red Umbrella and The Cooling Aura.
• Orenaug Mountain Publishing: My poem, Personal, was published in the Orenaug Mountain Publishing Anthology, Personal Freedom. A poetry reading was held on January 19, 2025 and I was able to share my piece from 39:10 to 40:00.

Inspired Poetry Corner

I performed at the January 19, 2025 Inspired Poetry Corner's Show #36: Sunday at the Corner featuring Lady Dia  &Troph, Kinfolk Nation, who were awesome! I shared Indecision and The Table.

https://youtu.be/mJRpxnbbg6E?si=T5ueJ5eCFIuKTA2a

January 25-26, 2025 Online sessions

• Brownstone Poets: I performed during the January 25, 2025 online poetry reading, which featured Michael Broder, Allyson Paty and David Groff. I was on from 10:00 to 11:26 and shared Family Tree and Ugly Faces.
• Let's Po-Et: I joined the talented Nita Chase, Stephanie Piper and Nuri Desvigne for the January 25, 2025 session of Let's Poet. I shared my pieces, Erase and Embrace and Strong Woman.

The Fertile Brains

• Online Reading: I joined The Fertile Brains online poetry reading on January 26, 2025 and shared Roots to Routes, which was inspired by the BVI Lit Fest Poetry Competition. I'm on from 1:14:13 sharing my piece.
• The Fertile Brains Solo Recital: The Fertile Brains featured me in a Solo Poetry Recital on January 29, 2025. I shared a variety of my pieces throughout.

Artist Feature: Bari

I love highlighting our Virgin Islands talents on my blog. This month, I featured Bari, who is a multi-talented musician and athlete.

New Poem

Never Tired

drifting

a piece of history

once on an SUV

next on a swing

hurricane winds

took me to the river

I don't degrade

will be here forever

never tiring

just traveling

as the wind or water

take me

© Linette Rabsatt 1-31-2025

Thank you for your continued support!

Poem: Indecision by Linette Rabsatt

I wrote my poem, Indecision, based on a photo prompt. It's a piece that I had some fun with based on the image. Feedback always welcomed!

Poem: Sweet by Linette Rabsatt

I wrote this poem on October 30, 2024 for the Promptober challenge hosted by Worcestershire Litfest & Fringe.

 
Important Reminder: Pineapple is the best tart filling!

POEM: Clerical Sense

one's preferences are either rational or irrational

although turbulence is neither defined as partial nor impartial

but you see that pretense is always intentional

and if I'm on defense, it means things have gotten critical

because an offense is usually described as something 'criminal'

while lenience could be viewed as an action that is non-committal

yet our differences encourage constant rebuttal

I know that reverence does not mean that you are spiritual

and using incense could never mean you believe you are magical

same way, having a license is not only what qualifies a professional

because competence is developed from doing practicals

we know that diligence may not put you on a pedestal

and common sense is not always available and perpetual

but having excellence means that your thinking is tactical

so your intense words should be for things that are unusual

go build your patience by reading something historical

because losing your conscience is indescribably brutal

never resort to violence because things become crucial

since indifference could be a strategy for survival

and severance is always an option, but so is reprieval

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Intensify

ɪɴᴛᴇɴꜱɪꜰʏ

Emotions ɪɴᴛᴇɴꜱɪꜰʏ
as I search for a sense of satisfaction
in a topsy-turvy life filled with distractions
yet my heart calls me to diversify
my intent and decisions
to become more productive and intentional
not that everything has to be transactional
or by allowing my actions to be irrational
but I can't keep investing in other's progress
when I know I should be vested in my success
through continuous learning and growth
and surrounding myself with like beings
who don't judge people by what they are seeing
but look forward to conscious and upright living

© 𝕷𝖎𝖓𝖊𝖙𝖙𝖊 𝕽𝖆𝖇𝖘𝖆𝖙𝖙 12/15/2024

POEM: A Michael Jackson Story

He said "Billie Jean is not my lover"

but Annie was upset

No matter how he asked,

"Annie, are you ok?"

She was not having it

He said "The kid is not my son"

People always 

"Wanna be starting something"

but all she said was

"Remember the time"

and he knew she was fed up

He tried to be a "Thriller"

but she only believed what

she saw in "Black and White"

He kept pleading

"I just can't stop loving you,"

"I'll be there,"

It's just "Human Nature,"

those other people

"They Don't Care About Us"

but this "Pretty Young Thing"

only wanted to "Scream"

She said look at the

"Man in the Mirror,"

you'll see a "Smooth Criminal"

"The way you make me feel"

is "Dangerous"

I want to "Rock with you"

but you better 

"Leave me alone"

or there will be

"Blood on the dance floor"

You are "Bad"

because at night

"You are not alone"

I remember when

"Love never felt so good"

and when I would say

"Don't stop till you get enough"

but now I need someone

to "Heal the world"

that I live in

© Linette Rabsatt

Poem: Guardian of My Galaxy

I may not be "Brandy",

but I think I am a fine girl

and despite what you think,

"Ain't no mountain high enough"

that can keep me from reaching my goals

because I've got music and I've got soul

So even though I don't say

"Come and get your love" often

that doesn't mean I don't want to "Escape"

and drink some "Pina Colada"

We have to live in this moment so

"Come a little bit closer"

because I'm happiest when I see

the bright "Mr. Blue Sky"

because the "Spirit in the Sky"

has me "Hooked on a Feeling"

It's not like "I'm not in love"

it's just that

"I fooled around and fell in love"

and "Ooh Child",

"Bring it on home to me"

So don't change your mind

and don't leave me behind

because you are the Guardian of my Galaxy

 © Linette Rabsatt 2020

Poem: The Weeds

We often ask ourselves why 

About many things

Like how birds learn to sing 

Or how weeds take over a garden 

Instead we need to watch

The numerous happenings 

And the way nature keeps thriving 

How it replenishes and accommodates

And how the circle of life is displayed 

Look at how simply flora and fauna 

Coexist to provide our basic needs

Even though we act more like the weeds

and take over all the spaces

Choking all other beings

If we watch the simplicity 

Teamwork, survival and diligence 

We can mirror the behaviors 

To make the world a better place 

Poem: Navigation

I want to navigate
and elevate
but not just gravitate to the next thing
I have my eyes set on a goal
and this soul
doesn't give up that easily
so don't talk to me teasingly
because you don't know what I'm feeling
or if I am healing
don't assume what people are dealing with
because you don't know where they sit
or if they've been hit
or bitten
because what comes from within
is what lies beneath
so take a seat
and rest your feet
let me take my ride
let me confide with the Most High
as I navigate
resuscitate
and elevate

 © Linette Rabsatt