Renowned poet Carl Little has released a new poem titled “Cling,” featured in the latest edition of the *Maine Arts Journal*. This work explores the enduring joy and strength derived from childhood memories, illustrating how these experiences shape our resilience as we age.
In “Cling,” Little employs vivid imagery to evoke the simplicity and delight of boyhood. The poem captures moments such as discovering sunfish nests and the thrill of flinging rotting apples into the sky. It reflects on how these memories remain vital, offering support amid the challenges of adulthood. Little writes, “Climb trees to watch the world from a safe distance: wars, spats, friends who fell.” Such lines encapsulate the protective nature of childhood memories, suggesting they can provide solace during difficult times.
Carl Little is the author of the forthcoming collection *Blanket of the Night: Poems* (Deerbrook Editions, 2024). His work has been published in various esteemed literary outlets, including *The Café Review* and *Maine Arts Journal*, as well as in anthologies edited by Wesley McNair. Notably, his poem “The Pond of Life” appears in *Alive to This: Essays on Living Fully by 20 Maine Writers* (Littoral Books, 2024). A resident of Mount Desert Island, Little continues to contribute to the vibrant literary scene in Maine.
Opportunities for Emerging Voices
The *Deep Water: Maine Poems* initiative, produced in collaboration with the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance, is currently accepting submissions. The program aims to highlight the talents of underrepresented voices, including Black writers, writers of color, indigenous writers, and LGBTQ+ writers. Submissions are open until the end of the year, allowing new and diverse perspectives to be shared.
Those interested can submit their work and find more information at mainewriters.org/deep-water. This initiative seeks to foster a welcoming environment for poets and writers from various backgrounds, ensuring a rich tapestry of voices in Maine’s literary community.
The poem “Cling,” copyright 2025 by Carl Little, was first published in *Maine Arts Journal* and appears with the author’s permission. Through his work, Little not only showcases his poetic talent but also contributes to an ongoing conversation about the importance of childhood experiences in shaping our adult selves.
