Being a native Californian, the state with the most diverse topography in the United States, I’ve lived through a lot of significant natural disasters and cultural events than have influenced American folklore. When I was a kid, living in Oak View, California, the state was paired with just earthquakes. This past generation we are more known for our devastating fires and mudslides often making the 6o’clock news.     

In 2017, the state was particularly hit by several months of fires and mudslides in what seemed like a very long fire season with many lives, animals and property lost. Many poets shared their skills in this book which addressed all types of disasters that year. My poem, Paradise Lost, addresses the Camp Fire, in Paradise , California. I’m on page 86-87.

Mark Fargo MA
Moto Poet
Blue Collar Photographer
“This is the Way”
Website. authormarkfargo.com