Half hour-ish podcasts that feature songs, poems, stories, and patter built around a theme each time. Modaff and Miller are writers and stage/radio performers. Contemporary and classic writers, original stories and songs are performed.
Lynn C. Miller and John Modaff
Song 1: “The Eyes Have It,” composed and performed by John V. ModaffPoem 1: “In Hurricane With Horses” by Mark Sanders. Mark lives in Nacogdoches, TX and teaches at Stephen F. Austin University. https://sandersme1.wixsite.com/mark-sanders/Fiction excerpt: from the novel Death of a Department Chair by Lynn C. Miller. University of Wisconsin Press, 2006. https://uwpress.wisc.edu/Books/D/Death-of-a-Department-ChairFeed the cat break: “Beastly Beauty” by John V. ModaffPoem 2: “My Hipster” by Barbara Rockman, author of the poetry collections To Cleave and Sting and Nest. Barbara is a poet and teacher whose homebase is Santa Fe.Song 2: “Sonnet 130” by William Shakespeare. Set to music by Phil Schmidt and performed by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda MillerTheme & Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMIRecorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP on Episode 49: “Speaking Up” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell your friends about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “Day Never Comes,” composed and performed by David R. Merrill.Poem 1: “Leda and the Swan” by Nobel prize-winning poet W. B. Yeats, composed in 1923 and first printed in 1924.Fiction: “The Secret Pool,” by Lynn C. Miller, excerpted from her first novel The Fool's Journey, 2002 (Winedale Press). In press is the novel The Surrogate for 2026. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “The Legend of the Myth” by John V. ModaffPoem 2: “Another Story” by poet Hilda Raz, from a story that inspired Yeats and many others about the beautiful Leda and the god-turned-swan Zeus. In New and Collected Poems, Letter from a Place I've Never Been, from University of Nebraska Press, 2022.Song 2: “The Old Monsters Rest Home,” by John V. Modaff.Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff , BMIThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY and produced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: Episode 48, “What is Beautiful?” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell your friends about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: The God Machine (Dave Merrill and John V. Modaff)Poem 1: “To the Mother of the Sixteen-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead by the Police After She'd Called Them” by Susan Aizenberg. From Quiet City, BkMk Press 2015. Her most recent book is A Walk With Frank O'Hara (U of New Mexico Press, 2024).Fiction: Excerpt from The Surrogate by Lynn C. Miller, in press with U of Wisconsin Press, 2026. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: "Harpsong," by John V. ModaffPoem 2: “Butterflies Just Out of Reach” by David Meischen from Anyone's Son: 3 A Taos Press, 2020. His short story collection is the recent Nopalito, U of New Mexico Press.Song 2: "Someplace Safe" (John Modaff with Dave Merrill) Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. ModaffThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM & Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: Episode 47, “Myths and Legends” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell all of your friends about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “The Swing Set Song” by Andrew Preston and AP Harbor, from the album MildepondPoem 1: “Contemplating Eternity While Sticking Its Neck Out” by Julie Williams, author of Escaping Tornado Season and Drama Queens in the House. A poetry collection is under review.Story excerpt: “Neighbors” by Lynn C. Miller, from David's Harvest, stories, in process. Her latest book is The Lost Archive: stories, https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: excerpt from “A Self-Setting Sun,” by Annie Wonder & Jonathan A. ModaffPoem 2: “Good Neighbor” by Jack Cooper, author of Silly Lily's Rhyming Adventures In Nature (2023) and Across My Silence (2007) World Audience, Inc. https://sillylilysadventures.com/Song 2: “Bluebilly,” composed and sung by John V. Modaff, BMI Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. ModaffThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek Studio, Morehead KY NEXT UP: Episode 46 coming in March, 2025: Judgment Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell all of your friends about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “The Young & The Old” (composed by David R. Merrill, performed with John Modaff)Poem 1: “Cousin Judy Paints” by Mikki Aronoff, a much-published Albuquerque poet, Pushcart nominee, and animal advocate.Short Story: “Satisfaction” by Lynn C. Miller. Her novel THE SURROGATE is in process with the University of Wisconsin Press for 2026. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “Bouree” (JS Bach/Ian Anderson, performed by David R. Merrill)Poem 2: “Bloom” by Sarah Kotchian. From “Light of Wings,” her new collection from University of New Mexico Press in 2024. https://sarahkotchian.com/Song 2: “Sweet Songs” (by John V. Modaff, performed with Good Enough on the album “TOO”)Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMIThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek Studio, Morehead 40351NEXT UP: Episode 45 coming February 2025: “Neighbors” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “I Can't Sing That Song” (John V. Modaff)Poem 1: “Ecdysis Sonnet” by Sandra Yannone. Sandy's new collection is the glass studio (Salmon Poetry, 2024).Fiction: excerpt from the novel in progress, “The Angel of Devastation.” Her latest book is The Lost Archive: stories, https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: “Different Same,” by Jonathan A. ModaffPoem 2: “Sympathetic Magic” by Susan Aizenberg. Susan's new collection is A Walk With Frank O'Hara (UNMP, 2024).Song 2: “I Call Crazy” (T Bone Kelly, from the album Toast)Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMIThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek Studio, Morehead 40351NEXT UP: Episode 44 coming January 2025: “Harmony” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “Clever Brilliant Mind” (by David R. Merrill with John Modaff)Poem 1: “I'm” by Jack Cooper, author of Silly Lily's Rhyming Adventures In Nature (2023) and Across My Silence (2007) World Audience, Inc. https://sillylilysadventures.com/ Fiction: three short excerpts from her third novel The Day After Death by Lynn C. Miller, published by the University of New Mexico Press, 2016. www. lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “One November Evening” by Chris Geyerman with John V. ModaffPoem 2: “Sunday Afternoon with Seurat” by David Meischen, author of the linked story collection Nopalito, University of New Mexico Press, 2024 and the poetry collection Anyone's Son (3, A Taos Press, 2020).Song 2: “Counting Down the Raindrops” by Andrew Preston and A. P. Harbor.Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY Produced at The Creek Studio NEXT UP: Episode 43, “Breaking Up” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “I'm Not Your Maybe” (Daniel P. Modaff, performed with GOOD ENOUGH from the album Saturday's Child)Poem 1: “Conditional Love Story” by Barbara Rockman, author of the poetry collections To Cleave and Sting and Nest. Barbara is a poet and teacher whose homebase is Santa Fe.Fiction: Excerpt from “The Surrogate,” a novel in process by Lynn C. Miller, whose latest book is The Lost Archive: stories, https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: “Counting Down the Raindrops” (Andrew Preston and A.P. Harbor)Poem 2: “The Impossibility of Stasis," by Hilda Raz whose New and Collected Poems, Letter from a Place I've Never Been, came out from University of Nebraska Press.Song 2: “I Doubt It” (John V. Modaff)Episode artwork by Lynda MillerTheme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMIRecorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KYProduced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP on Episode 42: “Unruly Thoughts” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: Glimpses by Daniel P. Modaff, Jennifer Butler Modaff & Mark E. Collins, performed by GOOD ENOUGH from their new album, Saturday's Child (2024).Poem 1: “Remember the Boneyard,” by Julie Williams from a collection in progress. Author of Escaping Tornado Season and Drama Queens in the House.Fiction: “Near Death,” a short story by Lynn C. Miller. www.lynncmiller.comFEED THE CAT BREAK: “Just Before the Curtain Opens,” by John V. Modaff.Poem 2: “Living Room Scene,” by Scott Wiggerman, based on Eric Fischl's ‘Krefeld Project, Living Room Scene 1.' https://scottwiggerman.myportfolio.com/Song 2: TV Jesus, written and performed by John V. Modaff with Jonathan Modaff on drums.Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMI The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 41, “The Age of Doubt” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: “Long Road” (Mark E. Collins & Daniel P. Modaff, BMI)Poem 1: “Breath” by Sarah Kotchian, from her new collection Light of Wings, UNM Press (2024): https://www.unmpress.com/9780826365972/light-of-wings/Fiction: excerpt from “Curiosities” a short story by Lynn C. Miller, from The Lost Archive by (2023) https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: cut from“Walk a Mile In My Blues” (Dan, Ken, & John Modaff joined by Dave Merrill on the harmonica.) From the new album, Saturday's Child.Poem 2: “Dreaming Orion” by David Meischen, from his collection Anyone's Son, 3: A Taos Press. David's new book is Nopalito, UNM Press, 2024. Song 2: “Sweet Songs” (John V. Modaff, with Good Enough) Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio NEXT UP: Episode 40 “Behind the Curtain” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast. Lynn & John
Song 1: You Told, composed and performed by John V. Modaff.Poem 1: “The Wicked Stepmother Tells Her Story,” published in bosque journal and later in We Were Meant to Carry Water as “Frail Cradle.” https://tinacarlsonpoetry.com/Fiction: “Cautionary Tale” by Lynn C. Miller, author of, most recently, The Lost Archive: Stories (2023), from a novel in progress. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “The Rear View” by JVM.Poem 2: “I Could Taste It” by Marjorie Saiser, whose book, The Track the Whales Make won the High Plains Award. Saiser's Losing the Ring in the River (University of New Mexico Press) won the Willa Award for Poetry in 2014. www.poetmarge.comSong 2: No Fly Zone composed and sung by JVMEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMIThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY Produced at The Creek Studio NEXT UP: Episode 39, “What is Healing?” Thank You to our listeners all over the world. Please tell a friend about the podcast! Lynn & John
Song 1: "Old Truck" composed and performed by David R. Merrill, drums by John ModaffPoem 1: “Data Affirmative” by Scott Wiggerman, Albuquerque poet, artist, and editor https://scottwiggerman.myportfolio.com/Fiction: excerpt from The Unmasking, a novel by Lynn C. Miller (www.lynncmiller.com)Published by University of New Mexico Press: https://www.unmpress.com/9780826361714/the-unmasking/Feed the Cat break: “Plow” composed and performed by David R. MerrillPoem 2: “Outbreak” by Jack Cooper, author of Silly Lily's Rhyming Adventures In Nature (2023) and Across My Silence (2007) World Audience, Inc. https://sillylilysadventures.com/Song 2: “The Message Radiation Sends” composed and performed by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. ModaffThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: Episode 38, “Revenge and Regret” To our listeners the world over: please tell a friend about the podcast! Thank you. Lynn & John
Song 1: “Family at the Door,” (by John V. Modaff with Good Enough)Poem 1: “Midnight, with Dogs” by Mark Sanders. Mark lives in Nacogdoches, TX and teaches at Stephen F. Austin University. https://sandersme1.wixsite.com/mark-sanders/Fiction: Excerpt from “Words Shimmer,” from The Lost Archive by Lynn C. Miller (2023) https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm www.lynncmiller.comFeed the cat break: "On the Porch" (Chris Geyerman and John Modaff)Poem 2: “Sundays in Wichita,” by Kelly Yenser. Author most recently of Walking Uphill at Noon, poems, UNM Press, 2022. https://www.unmpress.com/9780826363732/walking-uphill-at-noon/Song 2: “All Right Here,” Dan Modaff & Mark Collins, performed by Good Enough. Episode artwork by Lynda MillerTheme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMIRecorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY.Produced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: Episode 37, “Machines” To our listeners the world over: please tell a friend about the podcast! Thank you. Lynn & John
SONG 1: "Backwagon Man" (composed, sung, and played by John Modaff with mandolin and sundry string by Dan Modaff)POEM 1: “Another Story” by Hilda Raz, a retelling of the myth of Leda and the Swan. Collected in Letters from a Place I've Never Been: Collected and New Poems. University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://hildaraz.com/FICTION: excerpt from “Duluth” by Lynn C. Miller, from The Lost Archive by Lynn C. Miller (2023) https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: "Continental Drift" (by JVM)POEM 2: “Taking Leave” by Scott Wiggerman, a golden shovel poem inspired by haiku. Scott is also a visual artist. https://scottwiggerman.myportfolio.com/SONG 2: Centrum Amsterdam Purples (composed and sung by “T-Bone” Kelly) from his CD: No Expectations (2004)Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and Incidental music by John V. ModaffRecorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KYProduced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #36 “The Family” To our listeners the world over: please tell a friend about the podcast! Thank you. Lynn & John
SONG 1: Keep The Door Open (composed and performed by John V. Modaff, BMI)POEM 1: “A Wild Hope” by Julie Williams (2014), author of Escaping Tornado Season and Drama Queens in the House. A poetry collection is in process.FICTION: excerpt from “Afterthought” by Lynn C. Miller from The Lost Archive by Lynn C. Miller (2023) https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm www.lynncmiller.comFEED THE CAT BREAK: Forgetness by John V. ModaffPOEM 2: “In the Palm of My Hand, Rivers” by Tina Carlson. A guide to tongue tie surgery (2023) is available from UNM Press.SONG 2: Forgive Me Blues (JVM w/ Kentucky Colonel Steven Middleton on harmonica) Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 35, “Strange Bedfellows” To our listeners the world over: please tell a friend about the podcast! Thank you. Lynn & John
SONG 1: “Happy Never After” Dr. James T. “T-Bone” Kelly, from his CD Toast, Registered France, 2013POEM 1: “Calendar” by Jack Cooper, author of Silly Lily's Rhyming Adventures In Nature (2023) and Across My Silence, 2007, World Audience, Inc.https://sillylilysadventures.com/FICTION: excerpt from the novel in progress, “The Surrogate,” by Lynn C. Miller, author most recently of The Lost Archive. www.lynncmiller.com.FEED THE CAT BREAK: “Start of Snow” composed and performed by jvmPOEM 2: “Quid Pro Crow” by Sarah Kotchian, from “Light of Wings,” her new collection in press from University of New Mexico Press in 2024. https://sarahkotchian.com/SONG 2: “My Last Twenty” by John V. Modaff, BMIEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY NEXT UP: Episode 34, “Forgiveness” To our listeners the world over: please tell a friend about the podcast! Thank you. Lynn & John
SONG 1: Roses on the Floor by JVM with Dan ModaffPOEM 1: “The Landing” by Mark Sanders, published in bosque journal #8. www.bosquepress.com. Mark is the author of Conditions of Grace. https://sandersme1.wixsite.com/FICTION: excerpt from “The Surrogate,” a novel in progress by Lynn C. Miller, author most recently of The Lost Archive. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “Funky Stroller” by JVMPOEM 2: “Pond Coat and Alteration” by Barbara Rockman, author of most recently To Cleave. Poem published in bosque journal #8. www.bosquepress.comSONG 2: You Don't Love Me by Dave Merrill with The DelversEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY Produced at The Creek Studio, MoreheadNEXT UP on Episode 33: At What Price Money?
SONG 1: "Boom" (composed and sung by John V Modaff, joined by Dan Modaff)POEM 1: “War” by Hilda Raz. From List & Story. Also collected in Letters from a Place I've Never Been: Collected and New Poems. University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://hildaraz.com/ FICTION: “Trauma,” excerpt from the novel The Day After Death by Lynn C. Miller. Published by the University of New Mexico Press, 2016. www.lynncmiller.comFEED THE CAT BREAK: Grendel's Nap" (John Modaff)POEM 2: “Ask” by John V Modaff. Published in ABQ inPrint #6, 2022 by Bosque Press. www.bosquepress.comSONG 2: "Watching the Barn Burn Down" (Dan Modaff with Good Enough) Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead. NEXT UP: Episode 32 THE CHILL VIBE
SONG 1: Almost Blew My Face Off (composed and sung by jvm)POEM 1: “If Only” by Jack Cooper. First published in Spectrum 2. Anthology edited by Don Kingfisher Campbell, 2016Author of Across My Silence, 2007, World Audience, Inc. PROSE READING: “Near Misses,” a story by Lynn C. Miller. Her latest book is the collection The Lost Archive (April, 2023, U of Wisconsin Press). https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm www.lynncmiller.comBREAK MUSIC: "Waking up in a Baobab" by jvmPOEM 2: “Outside the Frame” by Susan Aizenberg from her new collection, A Walk With Frank O'Hara and Other Poems, in press from the University of New Mexico Press. susanaizenberg.wordpress.comSONG 2: "Horseshoes, Hand Grenades & Love" (composed and sung by jvm)Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead.NEXT UP: Episode 31 MONSTERS
Teasers by John Burroughs and Jane FrancisSong 1: "The Edge” (composed and sung by JVM)Poem 1: “Why We Bought a Horse” by Mark Sanders. Mark lives in Nacogdoches, TX and teaches at Stephen F. Austin University. https://sandersme1.wixsite.com/mark-sanders/Short Story: excerpt from “David's Harvest” by Lynn C. Miller from her collection The Lost Archive (April, 2023, U of Wisconsin Press). https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: : intro to "Try It Again" (by Dave Merrill w/ jvm on bass, 1984)Poem 2: Coronary Artery Bypass Graft by Kelly Yenser, from his collection in process, “So Far Undone.” He has two poetry collections with UNM Press: Walking Uphill at Noon and The News as Usual.Song 2: "This New Song" (Dave Merrill, 2006) Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and Incidental music by John V. ModaffRecorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #30: “Near Misses”
Poem 1: “Ghosts in my Pockets” by Julie Williams, author of Escaping Tornado Season and Drama Queens in the House.Song 1: Chalk Marks (poem by Ivria Sackton of Austin TX, 1981, arranged and sung by jvm)Poem 2: “Comfort Inn” by Scott Wiggerman, from his first book Vegetables and Other Relationships.Story excerpt: from “The Last Usher” in The Lost Archive by Lynn C. Miller (2023) https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: "Night Light" by jvmProse excerpt: from the novel The Blue Diamond by John Vincent Modaff (amazon)Song 2: Ghost Melodies (jvm; harmonica by Dave Merrill)Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMI The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 29, “Taking the Leap”
Song 1: Deaths Elsewhere (John V. Modaff)Poem 1: “Her Brown Horse Must Rise from the Dead” by Marge Saiser. Originally published in bosque #6 literary journal. www.bosquepress.comShort Story excerpt: “Solid Ground” by Lynn C. Miller. From a collection of stories in process about a North Dakota farm family. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat break: from Hot Summer by Dave MerrillPoem 2: “Enough” by JoAn Rittenhouse. Originally published in bosque #6 literary journal. www.bosquepress.comSong 2: A Little Smoke (Phil Schmidt, circa 1978, arr. John V. Modaff)Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 28, “Haunting”
Song 1: “The Nasty Song” composed and sung by Dave Merrill with instrumental and vocal help from John V. Modaff and Vaughn Deel. (1984)Poem 1: “Ladybird, ladybird, fly away home” by Mikki Aronoff. First published in Love's Executive Order (background music Hail to the Chief by James Sanderson)Short story excerpt: “Everyday Monsters” by Lynn C. Miller. Her new collection, The Lost Archive, came out in April, 2023: https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htm Feed the Cat Break: "News From The Cat Network" by JVM (1997)Poem 2: “What is Offensive” by Hilda Raz. Her latest book is Letters from a Place I've Never Been: Collected and New Poems. University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://hildaraz.com/ Song 2: "Didja Want Toast Wit Dat?" composed & performed by TBone Kelly, registered France, 2015.Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and incidental music by John V. ModaffThe Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 27, “Friendship”
Teasers: Ernest Hemingway, C.S. Lewis, and HeraclitusSong 1: Grand Prize written and sung by JVM with Dan Modaff on lead guitarPoem 1: “Window Shopping in Guatemala” by Kelly Jon Yenser, whose new book of poems, Walking Uphill at Noon, 2022 from UNM Press.Story excerpt from “The Last Usher” by Lynn C. Miller. Published in The Lost Archive, 2023, https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: excerpt from Centrum Amsterdam Purples by Tbone Kelly. Druidbone Productions, registered 2013, FrancePoem 2: “Autumn,” by Sue Hallgarth, published in bosque 5, www.bosquepress.com. Her series on Willa Cather and Edith Lewis, On the Rocks and Death Comes are published by Arbor Farm Press.Song 2: Mathias Rust by JVM, Dan Modaff on mandolin and 2nd guitarEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio. NEXT UP: Episode 26, “What is Offensive?”
Song 1: Magic Word composed and performed by John V. Modaff. Viola by Dave Merrill.Poem 1: “Abracadabra” by Sarah Kotchian. Published in ABQ inPrint issue #3, 2019. www.bosquepress.com Her new book, Light of Wings, will come out in 2024.Short story, “Simply Magic,” by Lynn C. Miller. Her new collection, The Lost Archive, comes out in April, 2023: https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: Ride by Dave Merrill.Poem 2: “At Home” by Mark Sanders. Mark lives in Nacogdoches, TX and teaches at Stephen F. Austin University. https://sandersme1.wixsite.com/mark-sanders/Song 2: Blue River composed and performed by JVM.Episode artwork by Lynda MillerTheme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMIRecorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio.NEXT UP: Episode 25, Strange Encounters
Teasers by Albert Einstein, Sylvia Plath, and Mackenzie FinkleaSong 1: Froney's Museum (composed and performed by John Modaff with Dan Modaff on mandolin and solo guitar)Poem 1: “The Invisible Woman” by Julie Williams (2013), from her collection in progress. Author of Escaping Tornado Season (a novel in poems) and Drama Queens in the House.Short Story: excerpt from “Archival Footage” by Lynn C. Miller from her collection The Lost Archive (April, 2023, U of Wisconsin Press). https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6155.htmFeed the Cat Break: Snow Day (composed and performed by Dave Merrill)Poem 2: “Suddenly My Life” by Jack Cooper. Author of Across My Silence, 2007, World Audience, Inc. Song 2: Your Wall (composed and performed by John Modaff)Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff, BMI Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio. NEXT UP: Episode 24, What is Magic?
Teaser: Quotes from Ernestine Ulmer, Julia Child, and Maya AngelouSong 1: Shaving Cream Eyes (Robert Hopper; played by JVM and Dan Modaff) Poem 1: “One Toe Crooked” by Hilda Raz. Published in Letters from a Place I've Never Been: Collected and New Poems.University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://hildaraz.com/Short Story: “Old Vines” by Lynn C. Miller. Forthcoming in the collection The Lost Archive, University of Wisconsin Press, April, 2023.Feed the Cat break: a cut of Baby Fat by T-bone Kelly from his CD ToastPoem 2: “Carciofo”by Katherine DiBella Seluja. Published in bosque journal #8, 2008 and forthcoming in Point of Entry, UNM Press, 2023. Song 2: Platter of Love (JVM) Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. NEXT UP: Episode 23, “Collecting”
Teaser: Quotes from Oscar Wilde, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ernest HemingwaySong 1: Generic Protest Song (by jvm, performed by John Modaff & Dan Modaff)Poem 1: “Eleanor Can't Sleep” by Susan Aizenberg, published in ABQ inPrint #6, Fall, 2022. Susan lives in Iowa City, IA. She has a new collection, A Walk With Frank O'Hara and Other Poems, in press from the University of New Mexico Press. susanaizenberg.wordpress.comShort Story: “Standing in the Light” by Lynn C. Miller. Her new collection of stories, The Lost Archive, will be published in March, 2023 by the University of Wisconsin Press. www.lynncmiller.com Feed the Cat Break: “Asteroid Belt” by Dave MerrillPoem 2: “Swimming Lesson” by Mikki Aronoff, published in Value: Essays, Stories & Poems by Women of a Certain Age, March, 2017.Song 2: “Gardener” by Dave MerrillEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff, BMIRecorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead.NEXT UP: “Food for Thought”
Teaser: Quotes from Louise Glück and Milan KunderaSong 1: “Two Trains” by written and performed by John V. Modaff and Good Enough from the CD More Than A Line(2018)Poem 1: “All That Is Made” by Sarah Kotchian, published in ABQ inPrint #6, fall, 2022. www.bosquepress.com. Her new book, Light of Wings, will come out in 2024.Short story, “Remember?” by Lynn C. Miller. Her new collection of stories, The Lost Archive, will come in 2023. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “Park Bench,” recollections of a certain bench at water's edge on a warm day of rain by JVM. Poem 2: “There's Another Story I tell Myself So I Won't Forget,” by Julie Williams from her novel-in-poems Escaping Tornado Season, Harper, 2004.Song 2: “The Wounded,” written and sung by T. Bone Kelly, second verse drawn from “The Wound” by the warrior poet Dermot O'Neill.Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff. Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead. NEXT UP: Episode 21, “Youth and Age”
Teaser: Quotes from J.M. Barrie, Edgar Allen Poe, and the Buddha on faith and doubt.Song 1: “To JC and the Boys” John V. Modaff (w/ Dan Modaff on banjo and mandolin.)Poem 1: “Doubting Thomas” by Scott Wiggerman, Albuquerque poet and co-founder of Los Gatos Press.Fiction: excerpt from story, “How Did You Know It Was Time to Go?” published in Articulated Short Story Anthology, 2016 and forthcoming in THE LOST ARCHIVE in Spring, 2023. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat break: music by Dave Merrill, portion of Wolf TownPoem 2: “My Grandmother Told the Story This Way” by Katherine Seluja, forthcoming in her new collection Point of Entry, UNM Press, 2023.Song 2: “With You” JVM.Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead. NEXT UP: Episode 20, “Memory”
Teaser: Quotes by George Bernard Shaw, Henry Van Dyke, Jeremiah Brent, and Roald Dahl on closets and secrets.Song 1: “Ballad of Mollie Bean” written and performed by John V. Modaff, with Dan Modaff on mandolinPoem 1: “The Last Detail” by Jack Cooper. Published by Bosque Press in ABQ inPrint #5, Fall, 2021. www.bosquepress.comFiction: excerpt from “The Surrogate,” a novel-in-progress by Lynn C. Miller. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat break: acoustic guitar by Chris Geyerman with jvm on pianoPoem 2: “Dear Husband from Afar” by Barbara Rockman. From the collection to cleave, published by UNM Press, 2019. The poet says: “I was literally afar at a three-week artists' residency at Atlantic Center for the Arts in Florida; my husband was home in New Mexico.” Song 2: “Closets Gonna Sing” by JVM, harmonicas courtesy of Dave MerrillEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead NEXT UP: Episode 19, “Faith”
Teaser: Oscar Wilde and Agatha Christie on in/sanitySong 1: “Kind of Crazy” written and performed by JVM with Dan Modaff on mandolinPoem 1: “Meditation“ by Hilda Raz. Published in Letters from a Place I've Never Been: Collected and New Poems. University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://hildaraz.com/Short Story: “Flight,” by Lynn C. Miller. Forthcoming in The Lost Archive: Stories, University of Wisconsin Press, 2023. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: “Dawgie's Tale” by JVMPoem 2: “Monster” by Tina Carlson. Published in ABQ inPrint issue 5. Her new collection, A Guide to Tongue Tie Surgery,is forthcoming from the University of New Mexico Press in 2023.Song 2: “Tried to Be Cold” written and performed by JVMEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Show theme and Incidental music by John V. Modaff Recorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead NEXT UP: Episode 18, “Closets”
Teaser: Opposite takes on the country by Emily Bronte in Wuthering Heights (1847) and from Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle (stories written 1887-1927).Song 1: “Saturday” (JVM with Dave Merrill and Dan Modaff)Poem 1: “Memorial Day” by Julie Williams, Minneapolis-based poet, novelist and visual artist. Escaping Tornado Season, HarperCollins 2004, Drama Queens in the House, Roaring Brook/Macmillan, 2014Story excerpt: “A Winter Heart” by Lynn C. Miller, from a book of linked stories in progress. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the cat break—music by JVM, "Park Bench"Poem 2: “River-Mind” by Priscilla Long published in bosque 6(www.bosquepress.com). Her book Holy Magic won the Sally Abiso award from MoonPath Press. www.priscillalong.comSong 2: “Georgia Pacific 219” sung by Dan Modaff (Dan & John Modaff and Larry Modaff, cd: Dakota Plains)Episode artwork by Lynda MillerShow theme and incidental music by John V. ModaffRecorded in Albuquerque, NM and Morehead, KY. Produced at The Creek StudioNEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #17: “In/Sanity”
Teaser: Guy de Maupassant (1850-1853), master of the short story, on conversation. Song 1: “Talking to Headstones” (John Modaff) Poem 1: “Quickening” by Elise McHugh, Albuquerque poet and editor, published in bosque journal, issue #5. http://bosquepress.com/book-series/bosque-journal/ Short Story excerpt “How Much Is Enough?” forthcoming in the collection THE LOST ARCHIVE from the University of Wisconsin Press, 2023. www.lynncmiller.com Feed the Cat Break: a piece of "Indigenous Tuna," by TBone Kelly Poem 2: “You Went to the Prado,” by Jon Kelly Yenser, from the collection Walking Uphill at Noon: poems, University of New Mexico Presss, 2022. https://unmpress.com/search?keywords=Walking+Uphill+at+Noon Song 2: “Hold My Hand” (Dan Modaff with Good Enough, from the CD Too).Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead NEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #16: “THE COUNTRY”
Teaser: Harriet Tubman (1820-1913), abolitionist and suffragist on Dreams.Song 1: Just A Few of the Notes (Paul J. Nickels & jvm)Poem 1: “Earth's Shadow” by Claudia Putnam from THE LAND OF STONE AND RIVER in press 2022 from Moon City Press. https://claudiaputnam.com/Story: “Pueblo Luna” by Lynn C. Miller, forthcoming in the collection THE LOST ARCHIVE from the University of Wisconsin Press, 2023. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break music: "Middle Ground” by David R. MerrillPoem 2: “Radish Dreams” by Mikki Aronoff, published in bosque 9, 2019 Bosque Press. www.bosquepress.comSong 2: Winters End (David R. Merrill) Episode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme and Incidental Music by John V. Modaff Recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio, MoreheadNEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #15: “Conversation”
Thoughts on superstition from Hypatia, first documented female mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher. Born 350-370––died 415 AD.Song 1: Step On a Crack, written and performed by John V. Modaff (harmonica Dave Merrill, piano/synth Jonathan Modaff)Poem 1: “After Reading the News this Morning, I Turn to the Curses of My Ancestors: A Found Poem” by Susan Aizenberg from her chapbook First Light (Gilbraltar Editions, 2020). Susan hails from Iowa City, IA. susanaizenberg.wordpress.comNovel excerpt: “The Séance” from Death of a Department Chair by Lynn C. Miller. University of Wisconsin Press, 2006. https://www.lynncmiller.com/book/death-of-a-department-chair/Feed the Cat Break, music by John V. ModaffPoem 2: “Old Matthew's Last Words,” adapted from Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The House of the Seven Gables, 1851.Song 2: Where You Going? Written and performed by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller Theme, background and incidental music by John V. Modaff The Unruly Muse is recorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio. NEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #14: “Dreams”
Teaser: Theodore Dreiser (1871-1945), American novelist, author of Sister Carrie and An American Tragedy, on New York City.Song 1: “Old Joe,” written and performed by John V. Modaff.Poem 1: “Halifax, 1917, Then and Never Again,” by Sandra Yanonne from Boats for Women, 2019, Salmon Poetry.Short Story: excerpt from “Words Shimmer” by Lynn C. Miller, Chautauqua Journal, 2016. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat Break: song “New York,” arranged and performed by Tbone Kelly, from Druidbone; Cast an Irish Circle, 2001 based on AE (George Russell) poems about New York and The Cities, Macmillan 1935.Poem 2: “Passerby” by Jack Cooper, from Across My Silence, 2007, World Audience, Inc. Jack CooperSong 2: “Why Not?” written and performed by John V. Modaff.Episode artwork by Lynda MillerTheme and Incidental Music by John V. ModaffRecorded in Albuquerque NM and Morehead KY. Produced at The Creek Studio.NEXT UP: The Unruly Muse #13: “Superstition”
Teaser*: excerpts from The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, 1925.Song 1: History, Mystery, Love by John V. ModaffPoem 1: “Girl with Red Scarf” by Barbara Rockman, published in bosque journal, issue #7, 2017. www.bosquepress.comStory: “The Dead Know” by Lynn C. Miller, part of “Inside the Archive” story collection, publication TBA. www.lynncmiller.comFeed the Cat break music by John V. Modaff*Poem 2: “West Mesa Murders: Seven Years Later,” by Tina Carlson, published in bosque journal, issue #6, 2016. www.bosquepress.comSong 2: Time Is Telling by John V. ModaffTheme and Incidental music by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda Miller*Thanks to zapsplat.com for jovial human noisesNext up on episode 12: “The City”
Teaser: from a journal entry by Henry David Thoreau, American author, 1859. Song 1: “Blue Train” by John V. Modaff, from the cd POD ONE Poem 1: “Letter from a Place I've Never Been,” title poem of Hilda Raz's New and Collected Poems, University of Nebraska Press, 2021. https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/search/?keyword=Letter+from+a+Place+I%27ve+Never+Geen Fiction: Excerpt from the novel, The Day After Death, by Lynn C. Miller, 2016 https://www.unmpress.com/books/day-after-death/9780826356680 and www.lynncmiller.com Feed the Cat break: "Snow Day," composed and performed by David R. Merrill Poem 2: “Night Braille,” by Sarah Kotchian. ABQ inPrint #5, 2021: www.bosquepress.com Song 2: “White Pines” by David R. Merrill with The Delvers, from the cd Highway Song.Theme and Incidental music by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda MillerN e x t u p o n e p i s o d e 11 : “T h e P a s t”
Teaser: Sinclair Lewis, American writer, 1915, “The Trail of the Hawk: A Comedy of the Seriousness of Life”Song 1: Good Time written and performed by John V. ModaffPoem 1: “Reasons the Suggestion Box Has Been Removed” by Carrie Shipers. Carrie teaches higher ed. In Providence, RI. This poem first appeared in bosque journal #6, 2016: www.bosquepress.com. https://www.carrieshipers.com/Short story: adaptation of “Regret” by Lynn C. Miller from a collection in process “Inside the Archive.” www.lynncmiller.comPoem 2: “Broadcast” by Kelly Yenser from The News as Usual, UNM Press. A new collection is forthcoming, WALKING UPHILL AT NOON. https://www.unmpress.com/books/news-usual/9780826360205Song 2: Technology Run written and performed by David R. MerrillTheme and incidental music by John V. ModaffEpisode artwork by Lynda MillerNext up on episode 10: “Landscapes Real and Imagined”
Show artwork, Lynda Miller Teaser, excerpt from Leaves of Grass Walt Whitman, 1855 "Time to Go," song by John V Modaff, 2005, performed with Good Enough on More Than A Line"Fade and Erase," poem by Timothy Schaffert, https://www.unl.edu/english/timothy-schaffert; https://theperfumethief.com Excerpt from The Fool's Journey by Lynn C. Miller, 2002, https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Journey-Lynn-C-Miller/dp/0970152582 or email lynn@lynncmiller.com for a signed copy. www.lynncmiller.com Break music "Blue Rein" by Mike Glass, on The Delvers CD Highway Song, 2015 "Wanderlust," song by David R. Merrill, 2015, performed with The Delvers, Highway Song, 2015 "Cool Hands," song by John V Modaff, 1983, performed with Good Enough, on Yes It Is 1998Show #9 theme teaser: What is Work?
Episode art work by Lynda MillerThe Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, 1886, excerpt.“EmmaJo,” song by John Modaff.“Pursuit,” poem by Scott Wiggerman, originally published in ABQ inPrint #3, 2019, https://bosquepress.com://bosquepress.com.“The Shadow Mirror,” story by Lynn C. Miller, in press in ABQ inPrint #5, 2021 (and part of collection “Inside the Archive,” in process). http://bosquepress.com“Lost in My Own Mind,”break music by willows (LouRae Stacy & Jonathan Modaff).“First Light,” poem by Susan Aizenberg, first published in bosque #8, 2018, now published in Gibraltar Editions chapbook. Susan's books available: https://www.prairielights.com“Shadows and Clouds,” song by John Modaff with Dan and Larry Modaff as Good Enough.Podcast theme ("Over the Creek") and incidental music by John Modaff. Theme for "First Light" stolen without remorse from Modest Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition.
The Wizard of Oz, (brief teaser, L. Frank Baum, 1900)The Roof of the Jewel, song by John Modaff“Advice to a Stalker of Sekhmet, from Ra, Who Understands Her Best,” poem by Mikki Aronoff, (published in ABQ inPrint #3, 2019 Bosque Press)“Coincidence,” short story by Lynn C. Miller, part of collection in progress, “Inside the Archive.” Dance, song by David R. Merrill, from the CD Thirteen Years, (1997)“Pearl Nebula,” poem by Jack Cooper from his collection Across my Silence, https://www.amazon.com/Across-My-Silence-Jack-Cooper/dp/1934209376 Rainbow Song , by Larry Modaff with Good Enough on the CD Too, (2000.)Episode artwork by Lynda Miller.Show theme and incidental music by jvm.Thanks to Dave Merrill for guitar accents on Roof of the Jewel.
Our sincere thanks to all contributors, even Henrik Ibsen, who might be beyond caring.A Doll's House, excerpt, by Henrik IbsenUp & Left, song by Mark E. Collins and John Modaff (Good Enough)Pale Blue, excerpt of a story by Lynn C. MillerThe Company That Keeps Me, a poem by Sarah Kotchian*Dakota Plains, song by Dan Modaff & Mark E. Collins, performed with Good EnoughLuminescent, poem by Katherine DiBella SelujaYou Breathin' Low, song by John Modaff*music bed Amelia's Waltz, by David R. Merrill, composer of TUM 5's break musicThanks to Dan Modaff for plucking some nice mandolin on Up & LeftShow theme "Over the Creek" and incidental music by jvmEpisode artwork courtesy of Lynda Miller.
Excerpt from The Age of Innocence, a novel by Edith Wharton, Charles Scribner's Sons, 1920“What I Married Into” poem by Barbara Rockman, from To Cleave, University of New Mexico Press, 2019 "More Than A Line" song by John Modaff, title track for Good Enough's album.“Other Married People,” short story by Lynn C. Miller, www.lynncmiller.com"You Intoxicate Me" by Daniel Bugli & T Bone Kelly, recorded in France, performed by TBone Kelly“That Subtle Knot” poem by David Meischen, from Anyone's Son, 3: A Taos Press, 2020"High Class" song by John Modaff, from the Good Enough album More Than A Linemusical assistance from Daniel P. Modaff, banjo and lead guitar on "High Class."
Featured Pieces:The Importance of Being Earnest (excerpt, Oscar Wilde)Wander (song, jvm)Is It Really You? (story excerpt, Lynn C. Miller)Meet & Greet (song, Red Fire)The Salesman (poem, Jon Kelly Yenser)Good Gossip (song, jvm)Episode Artwork: Doug RingTheme and Incidental music by jvm, Red Fire, and David R. MerrillHarmonica on Good Gossip by Kentucky Colonel Steven Middleton
The In-BetweenFeaturing:Alice Chats up a Cat (excerpt from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll)The 10th Hour (song, John Modaff)The Unmasking (novel excerpt and commentary, Lynn C. Miller)Anatomy of Silences (poem, Tina Carlson)The Sisters (poem, Hilda Raz)Saturday's Child (song, John Modaff)Episode and podcast artwork, Lynda MillerTheme and incidental music by jvmMusical support on Saturday's Child, Dan Modaff on mandolin and lead guitar, David R. Merrill on viola and cello.Produced at The Creek Studio, Morehead, KYcontact: theunrulymuse@gmail.com
The show rundown includes:"Soldiers Home" (song, John Modaff)"Noir by Night" (short story, Lynn C. Miller), "Raymond Chandler Drafts My Obit" (poem, Scott Wiggerman)"River Roses" (poem by DH Lawrence, musical arr. Phil Schmidt and John Modaff)"Alone" (poem, Edgar Allen Poe)
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