Money is a bit like attention.
The only thing wrong with either of them is when you have too much or too little.
Attention and Money
Eons
The bad luck raised suspicions, on a path that was beat down.
No one dared to look within or see the wise men in the town.
It was happening for eons, as long as Grandad could recall.
Like a dark foreboding plank walk or a dream in which you fall.
Until the child spoke her words that, “Maybe somethings wrong with me?”
So we made a meeting with the Doc, down at Family Psychiatry.
The doctor raised awareness and we all took a look.
Things are looking so good now, might take Grandma off the hook.
Now life is far from perfect however the family’s not so sad.
Looking in the mirror, not blaming blind luck, good or bad.
Where You Stumble
Where you stumble, there’s the gold.
Life’s a circle in time that’s rolled.
They never told you, you never knew.
You closed your mind and that time flew.
There is a song that’s strong and true.
You learn the lessons that failure grew.
You play the music, you write the song.
You stay in right, you learn from wrong.
The Chances Store
Chances were the premium at the chances store.
Called up their proprietor and asked for just one more.
Inside information suggested relocate.
When they closed the chances store, it sealed the users fate.
With no plans for the future and the future, it is here.
Who knew that the sun would rise and whisper last nights fear?
So we headed for the highway, which ended at the light.
Looked upon arrival, no chances store in sight.
Searching for the answers that will ease the fears.
Some will stand there crying and find few are buying tears.
All are someone’s baby lost along the way.
Strangers and sojourners who have lost the need to pray.
And I say, “Pray”
Dennis Mantin
Fad
My biscuits take on butter and my coffee takes on cream.
I’m bored with modern culture, and here I hold the scream.
I am curious and embarrassed to wonder what is next.
Like all anticipation when I’m waiting for her text.
She loves me but I’m doubtful, I know she has a fear.
I’m thinking about dying and there’s nothing quite that clear.
In a world of hope and wonder, there is something almost sad.
Like narcissists self importance when only mirrors are the fad.
The Fall
I couldn’t keep a straight face.
Oh the smiles had to fall.
That was such a tragic story.
How you suffered for us all.
You walked with Christ and Buddha.
Don’t know how you found the hours.
All those burdens you did overcome.
And still had time to smell the flowers.
I am basking in your glory.
If I dare to stand that tall.
Be careful with that next step.
And that Pride before the fall.
Look Them in the Eyes
NEW BOOK RELEASE!
Look Them in the Eyes
Dennis Mantin. Friesen Press, 2023
There are thirty-two ways to write a story, and I’ve used every one, but there is only one plot—things are not as they seem.
Jim Thompson
Following the birth of his daughter, Jackie, middle-aged Zach MacIver is determined to stop what he terms “intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction” from plaguing his family. Over the course of two years, from the time Jackie is eight until she turns ten, Zach recounts his life experiences to her while attempting to navigate the obstacles created by her mother, Tina, who is experiencing her own version of intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction. The story begins during the COVID-19 pandemic when the world and its inhabitants face mounting daily trials and life-altering decisions. From there the narrative proceeds in a non-linear fashion as Zach recounts the roots of his own dysfunction and how his love for his daughter and his desire to be a good father forced him to face his difficulties head on. American author Jim Thompson once wrote, “There are thirty-two ways to write a story, and I’ve used every one, but there is only one plot—things are not as they seem.” This story is a great reminder of that.
Available now to purchase in eBook, paper, and hardcover from Amazon, Friesen Press, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Google Play, and Kobo.
ACCOLADES
Book I wish I could read again for the first time!
Dennis Mantin’s clean characterisation breathes life into the narrative, the realistic portrayal adds to the reader’s understanding of the book’s profound messages on life and people. What’s compelling about the novel is the the Protagonist’s journey, his perspective on “intergenerational transmission of family dysfunction” and how he’s determined to stop that from plaguing his family. The story is neatly told from Zach’s( the protagonist) perspective. It’s a non linear narrative with characters virtually jumping off the page. The characters, their presentation and Mantin’s unique writing style offer readers a fresh and deep perspective.
—Anuradha Basu, Amazon, November 21, 2023
Observations on an Early Morning March Train
Fine food and Chardonnay.
Replacement exercise and hot role play.
Expanded waistline here to stay.
Relationships have gone away.
.
Sisyphus
The air is cool now, almost no humidity. Anything seems possible. I am feeling light and free. The weight of the world has been lifted from my shoulders. The struggles are far from over. I just won’t be doing it alone.
I have reached out for help and help is coming in the form of beauty and grace… This is the version of the story I choose to believe, because in the end there has to be hope and love or really, what is it all for anyway?
Old Dog New Tricks
They said “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”
“Nonsense!” I replied.
I have mastered online banking.
For my next trick I will attempt to endure suffering without complaint.
Dennis Mantin 
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