Jimmy Lisotto is a poet who comes to writing through a life shaped by caregiving, resilience, and reflection. After years of putting his energy into raising his children, he has recently returned to writing with a deeper sense of intention. His work explores love, loss, faith, pain, and the process of looking inward after years of looking outward. Now stepping more fully into his voice as a writer, he is working toward sharing his poetry more widely and building a chapter book that reflects both his experiences and his desire to leave something meaningful behind.
I have recently had the privilege of meeting him and talking about literature, life, faith, and poetry. Below is some of his work I have been honored to read, and am now pleased to be sharing with you today.
Out of the Vortex
Walking the trail of life’s daily routine,
An insidious fracture alters the scene,
Forcing a detour, felt deeply throughout,
Down the well-worn track of worry and doubt.
Perception distorted, feeling a bit crazed,
Thoughts darting about like a mouse in a maze.
Disaster is looming, dark clouds overhead,
Stomach is churning with a feeling of dread.
My heart beating faster, the air getting thick,
These sensations are spreading, feeling quite sick.
Sharp electric panic rushes through my soul,
Creating a vortex which seizes control.
Forging new paths in the landscape of the mind
Is a method I use a lot of the time.
Rerouting from shadows to a brighter view
Can often refresh the perception anew.
Exercise is also a good way to cope,
Drawing back from the edge of the cliff, toward hope.
I’ve found that deep breathing can also assist
In regaining clarity, clearing the mist.
Sharing my feelings can lessen the strain,
Helping reduce the weight on my brain.
Whichever method aids in finding release,
Regaining control brings much-needed peace.
“I believe that poetry is a medium which connects people from all walks of life.“
– Jimmy Lisotto
Jimmy is also a published poet, with work featured in Trashlight Press, Solid Food Press, The Agape Review, and Faith On Every Corner.
You can follow his creative journey on Facebook and Instagram.
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