Standing Alone, Leaning Against

Across the wide-ranging topics tackled in this joint debut collection of poetry from Jim Friedman and Dave Smith, the common thread is undoubtedly one of emotion. Whatever the subject, Friedman and Smith bring to their work a full gamut of feelings, from grief to joy, humour to depth, sympathy and objective observation.

This collection is a delight, containing something for everyone.

Jim Friedman

After working as a university tutor and later as a counsellor, Jim Friedman retired in 2014 and started writing again. He is a member of Derby Stanza group. This is his first collection.

"One of the most complete poetic craftsmen I know" - Ian Gouge

Dave Smith

Dave Smith sold his first poem for two guineas in 1970. The next chunk of his life was spent being a husband, parent and English teacher before his approaching retirement tempted him to write poetry again. His eye ranges from family and the familiar to the famous, infamous and forgotten. As poet Joseph Chaplain writes, "Dave tap-dances like Fred Astaire along the tragicomic spectrum."