Torus

(Published in the BWA Magazine 2025)

The universe, some say
Is the shape of a torus, a donut of stars and planets
And asteroids and comets and good days and bad days and clouds
And sunshine and rain
And pleasure and pain
Newspapers and mail
Texts and email
Homemade meals
And takeout deals
Fratricide
And genocide
Collateral damage
To no advantage
Abuses and truc
Ready excuses
Question ontology
Demand apology
Spinning
Spinning
Around a void
A donut hole
Chasing our tails
Chasing each other
Oh, what is the origin
Of our pluck and buck
Some call it a remarkable torus others call it a remarkable God
And others for lack of levity or for the sake of brevity
Call it, yes, the universe

Torus poem by Linda Drattell image

Recent Reviews

Impressively original, exceptionally charming, fully entertaining, and with an important message about the importance of the acceptance of difference for children ages 5-8, "Who Wants to be Friends With a Dragon?" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections for young readers.

Midwest Book Review

This book is an awesome, welcome addition to my little children’s library. Should be picked up by therapists, teachers, parents and grandparents if they want their children to learn to accept and socialize with other children different from them. Couldn’t ask for a better book to share with my little friends.

Amazon Customer

The story follows a timid dragon that wishes to leave his current world and make new acquaintances. The book can be used to teach children about not being judgmental of others and how a single act of kindness can go a long way toward building great relationships.

Nothing But Picture Books

"There are multiple teachable moments within “Who Wants To Be Friends With A Dragon” for parents and teachers to expand upon. I believe this book will make an exceptional addition to any school, church, daycare, or family library."

Read Reviews Kids

Linda Drattell’s latest poetry collection is a reflection born out of resilience… tenacity, healing, dealing with unexpected trials and contemplating the wonder of everyday life… Her poems honor the precious bonds with loved ones …I like to revisit her words, to savor them in silence or share them…

Julia Hone