Dancing in the Rain

Chris Moran recovered from alcoholism and the depths of despair, only to be faced with a long-delayed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis freed her spirit and unlocked her creativity. Her poetry documents her life with courageous honesty, unexpected humour, and a clear and unwavering eye. The author's profits from this volume will go to the Multiple Sclerosis Trust. From the introduction by Diane M. Denton, author of A House Near Luccoli, and its sequel, To A Strange Somewhere Fled, published by All Things That Matter Press: Chris's poetry is eclectic and entertaining, even whimsical, spiritual and philosophical, deeply personal and relatable. There's gentle power in it, but its expression is never forced. It breezes amongst the flowers and bees, notices the nuances of the seasons, takes a dog's view, plays like a child, animates a wheelchair, and considers the colour of cushions. It looks back with pain, laughter and love, and ahead with trepidation and hope. It handles loss and recovery, juggles resentment and gratitude. Its simplest offerings are never simplistic, the harshest never unrelenting. Where there is form there is still freedom. Every word, every stanza, every observation, every question, every understanding - all the aspects of Chris's journey through life and poetry - reflect her beautiful spirit that, rain or shine, will keep on dancing.