Charlie Brannick

North River Songs Charlie Brannick

An autobiographical account of a New Jersey boy who desires love and success on his own terms tracing the world he was born into, the one he engages at the playground, the little league, the corner store with his many friends, and to the changing world he finds as a returning Viet Vet. Feeling his time and attempts at love and success burning up beneath him he sets out for California determined to make the life he dreams of happen. When Rock Star and Movie Star don't pan out, and even the more substantive attempt at school counselor fail he finds himself in Eureka, Ca. weary and worn. Ultimately, when his eyes are open to a simpler way, where victories come easier and small things count he begins to feel the sense of accomplishment he desires. He spends the rest of his life in Eureka, Ca. trying to make something of himself. This is that story, what it feels like to be him in both poetry and prose. Cover photo: rescue pit bull Luigi lapping the waters of Humboldt Bay at King Salmon