The 274 poems in this anthology are pruned from 12 previously-published collections that contain approximately 700 poems plus 700 explanations: 99 tiny droplets of condensation, 99 reflections on landscapes, 99 broken buildings, 99 missed calls, 198 explanations, 200 explanations, 49 songs of silent sirens, 49 islands set in a single sea, 49 gods we serve, 49 insights into the smoking abyss, 49 chances to exist and 49 counter positions. I have also included 14 poems pruned from the next book I am writing: 49 troublesome thoughts.

Gardeners know the truth of the paradox 'pruning encourages growth'. I hope these modest roots and slender branches pruned from deeper roots and sturdier branches will encourage the growth of your ever-burgeoning tree of knowledge, but the fruit that your tree bears will always be your own unique truth.