The world took a deep breath in 2020 as it encountered a ghost of a bygone period, the Spanish Flu of 1918. A similar threat, unseen and insidious, swept across the globe, forcing us into a collective pause. But within this forced stillness, stories continued to unfold. Spread, a tapestry woven from poems, invites you to step inside as it chronicles selective events. These poems are not mere snapshots of a time dominated by headlines. They are observations that delve deeper, capturing the human experience amidst historical shifts. You'll find echoes of the pandemic's isolating touch , the fight for justice that surged across the American experience , and the ever-present hum of political and racial tension. But the thread isn't just about the weight of these events. It's also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Here, you'll find poems that sing of acts quiet and loud-close and distant. Prepare to be startled, to be comforted, to be discomforted, and most importantly, to be reminded of a shared experience. This is not simply a book of poems; it's a conversation starter. It's an invitation to remember, to agree, to disagree, to reflect, and perhaps, to find a new perspective on the events that shaped this extraordinary period. As you turn the pages, allow the lines to spark your own thoughts, feelings, and conversations. But remember, if we are not talking, we are not changing.