issue #1: musical golden shovels

Soaring Through the Shadows

29 April 2026

Once we reach the clearing, we can listen to the song of the owls. I brought you to this space so you can understand the meaning of their words. They carry desire on the wind and try to ascertain if their satisfaction is carried on a blow through the firs. Let’s sit here and watch an owl soar down onto a mouse scurrying across the gap. It comes down like a straight razor against a cheek, the quick slash cries out, then arcs back up high into the night.

Notes

After “The Chain” by Fleetwood Mac.

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about the author

Alex Carrigan (he/him) is a Pushcart-nominated editor, poet, and critic from Alexandria, VA. He is the author of Now Let's Get Brunch (Querencia Press, 2023) and May All Our Pain Be Champagne (Alien Buddha Press, 2022). He has appeared in HAD, fifth wheel press, Sage Cigarettes, JAKE, Inlandia Journal, and more. Visit carriganak.wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter @carriganak for more info.