In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton

I am therefore I write

Gabriela Marie Milton

In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton

In the beginning, the sky was dark, swollen with braided longings. The earth lay beneath it, clothed in smiling flowers and the slow breath of gods. Petals parted like whispered confessions, damp with promises. Desire had no name.

On that day, I bent and chose one bloom. My fingers lingered,. At the first trembling touch love burst from the ground.

The earth arched upward, aching, rising to meet the weight of the sky. Roots tightened, winds sighed, and the night thickened with roses and heavy steps. Your name became the name of desire spoken by birds.

The second day of creation started.

Gods of my many worlds, I beg your forgiveness.

Featured Art: Shutterstock

A thought and some reminder

I was asked in an interview how I write “lush poetry” and “haiku”, such different poetic genres. The answer is I do not know. I just can. I leave the beauty of both genres raining over me. I became one with my writings.

Please do not forget our fabulous Artist in Residence, Hikari, and me published Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art.

Delight yourself in its pages.

Call for Submission from Literary Revelations

Literary Revelations is thrilled to announce an open call for submissions for our upcoming anthology, Haiku for Soulmates. Whether you have a soulmate and wish to celebrate your connection, or you dream of finding one, we invite you to share your poetic voice. If you have a soulmate, please compose five haiku for him or her. If you do not, let your imagination shape five haiku that describe the soulmate you hope to meet.

To participate, please submit your five haiku to literaryrevelations@pm.me and clearly label your email subject as Haiku for Soulmates. Please note that unlabeled submissions may be misplaced and not read. The submission deadline is February 25. Your five haiku will be accepted or rejected as a block.

Gabriela Marie Milton

My books (Only English)

#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)|
#1 Amazon bestseller, Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art – co-authored with Hikari (Literary Revelation)

Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books.
Please read other reviews here:

Woman: Splendor and Sorrow: Love Poems and Poetic Prose by Gabriela Marie Milton in Portland Book Review
Woman: Splendor and Sorrow: Love Poems and Poetic Prose by Gabriela Marie Milton in Manhattan Book Review
Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings in San Francisco by Gabriela Marie Milton in San Francisco Book Review
Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings by Gabriela Marie Milton In Manhattan B

Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton – What to expect and a Surprise

My dear followers and subscribers,

This post will explain what to expect from Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton, forthcoming from Literary Revelations.

I want to make it clear from the beginning: Hikari’s fabulous contribution is much bigger than mine. She painted the art and wrote the tanka. I only wrote the foreword and corresponding haiku, approaching her paintings from a different point of view.

So let’s start, because at the end I have a surprise for you.

Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton

Trim: 8X10 inches
Text: English-Japanese
Amazon premium paper glossy
Foreword and bios in English and Japanese
Hardcover and paperback

The novelty brought by the book – Different interpretations of the same image

Hikari’s vibrant brushstrokes capture emotions and moments in time, while her tanka adds layers of meaning that resonate deeply with each piece. My haiku serves as a reflective lens, offering a different perspective on the same visual stimuli. This interplay between our approaches shows how art can be perceived through varied lenses, highlighting the beauty and meaning of our individual interpretations.

In 2003, when my publishing house, Literary Revelations, was still in its infancy, fate brought me to Hikari through a dear friend. The moment I laid eyes on her paintings; I was utterly captivated; they were a breathtaking homage to Japanese art. Each piece resonated with an ethereal beauty—pastels blending seamlessly with the elegance of fans and the grace of swords. It felt as though time stood still for those few seconds as I absorbed the profound artistry before me. Hikari’s work transcends mere aesthetics; it tells stories steeped in tradition and culture, inviting viewers and readers of tanka into a world where every brushstroke holds meaning.

This encounter ignited a spark within me – a desire to collaborate on a project that would not only showcase Hikari’s incredible talent but also convey my unique vision of the art of haiku. Hikari is Japanese, and she spent her young years in Europe. I am a European who now lives in the US. Together, we decided to create something extraordinary that honors both her heritage and my interpretations of the art of haiku.

In the name of our friendship, HAIKU AND TANKA: LULL, HARMONY AND POWER IN JAPANESE ART was born.

[from the foreword]

When you open the book, here is what you will find [the margins will not be there]

English translation of my haiku: Naoki Kimura.

Surprise

Hikari has painted a new fabulous piece for you and written a new tanka. I just wrote a corresponding haiku. Those pieces will not be included in the book.

HIKARI – TANKA

かの君が去りて始まる季節かな木の傘など　わたしは要らぬ

you walked away then
a new season took its place
more fair than before
your shelter was but a show
I stand alone, unshaken

GABRIELA MARIE MILTON – HAIKU

This earth feels too small,
Umbrella of love unfolds—
Time melts on your skin.

I hope you enjoyed this experience. Sending love and hugs to everyone.

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books.
Please read other reviews here:

Lullscapes in Light and Shadow by Naoki Kimura is now an Amazon bestseller and Top New Release in Black and White Photography

優しき光、しなやかなる陰たち ―
その儚さは、切ないほどに美しい
佇み ―
凪を待ち続ける
The light is tender, the shadow falls with grace—
delicate, it stirs the ache of beauty.
I linger, awaiting the hush of the lull.

木村尚樹
Naoki Kimura
凪景 Nagikei
Lullscapes in Light
and Shadow

My dear followers.

Lullscapes in Light and Shadow by Naoki Kimura, is now an Amazon bestseller and Top New Release in Black and White Photography.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who bought the book or spread the news.

I need your help more than ever.

WHY?

Because on Tuesday, the four major publishers of the world release their books, usually dragging down self-published books and small independent publishers. Literary Revelations is so proud of its accomplishments, but it is not Penguin Random House.

Literary Revelations

FOR YOUR INFO

Penguin Random House, the publisher encompassing the “Penguin” name, reported record global revenues of €4.9 billion (approximately $5.3 billion) for 2024, driven by higher book prices and broad title offerings. This marks an increase from €4.5 billion ($4.92 billion) in 2023, continuing a trend of rising sales despite earlier challenges.

That said, you understand.

You can find Lullscapes in Light and Shadow here. https://www.amazon.com/Fine-Art-Photography-Lullscapes-Shadow/dp/B0FP9JL6TL/

ABOUT THE BOOK.

The title “Nagikei” (凪景–Lullscapes) distills the profound tranquility and harmony embodied in “Nagi” (凪, Lull), weaving it seamlessly with the subtle appreciation for nuance and evanescence inherent in “Kei” (景, scenery or emotional landscape). In Naoki Kimura’s fine art photography and poetry album, this fusion becomes not merely an artful label, but a gentle invocation—an opening into a world where, between the shifting of light and shadow, time decelerates and the soul glides quietly toward contemplation.

Lullscapes in Light and Shadows is an artwork of interwoven monochrome vistas, with a careful curation of poetry—haiku, tanka, free-form verse, and brief prose reflections. Each literary piece is chosen to echo or counterpoint the visual narrative, inviting us ever deeper into the dialogue between image and word, between perception and emotion. The result is not a collection to be hurried through, but a presence to be lived with—an artifact for repeated visitation, wherein each encounter reveals new shades of meaning.

Nagikei is a quiet revolution—a call to reclaim the present moment from the relentless tide of haste and distraction. It is a living testament to the possibility of beauty in stillness, a sanctuary for those willing to see with eyes attuned to the delicate music of impermanence.

THANK YOU!

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books.
Please read other reviews here:

LITERARY REVELATIONS PUBLISHING HOUSE NOMINATED BEST PUBLISHER IN THE USA 2025 BY BEST OF BEST REVIEW

My dear followers,

I AM THRILLED TO TELL YOU THAT LITERARY REVELATIONS PUBLISHING HOUSE WAS NOMINATED BEST PUBLISHER IN THE USA 2025 BY BEST OF BEST REVIEW.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stands by us and engages in our projects. This award belongs as much to you as it does to us, a true testament to our collective passion and dedication.

From the award announcement:

Literary Revelations Publishing House: Best Publisher in the USA of 2025

At Best of Best Review, we are honored to recognize Literary Revelations Publishing House as the Best Publisher in the USA of 2025. Founded in 2022 by poet, editor, and bestselling author Gabriela Marie Milton, Literary Revelations has rapidly become a powerhouse in the literary world, blending tradition with innovation and earning international recognition.

A Publisher That Redefines Excellence

In just a few short years, Literary Revelations Publishing House has established itself as one of the most influential independent publishers in America. What sets them apart is not simply their success, but their unwavering commitment to literary quality, cultural impact, and artistic vision. Each book feels like a timeless creation, carefully crafted to connect deeply with readers’ hearts while also leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

Highlights of their remarkable journey include:

#1 Amazon Bestsellers: Every title published under their imprint has reached #1 Amazon Bestseller status in multiple categories, including single-authored books and anthologies.
Global Cultural Recognition: Their anthologies Petals of Haiku and Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku are now part of the Museum of Haiku Literature in Japan—a distinction few publishers can claim.
Immortality Through Literature and Art: Petals of Haiku, along with its striking cover painting, is displayed in the Treasure House of the Rinsenji Temple, Japan, placing their work in a sacred cultural context.
Innovation in Publishing: Beyond poetry and fiction, Literary Revelations is preparing to launch its first fine art album, Lullascapes in Light and Shadow by Japanese artist Naoki Kimura, already showcased at the Tokyo Hilton Hotel.
Selective and Authentic Publishing: Unlike platforms that accept nearly all submissions, Literary Revelations prides itself on a rigorous curation process—prioritizing quality over quantity.
A Platform for Literary Voices: Their Literary Revelations Journal publishes carefully selected poetry, prose, art, and interviews, including an exclusive with Nobel Prize-nominated writer Gaetano Camillo.
Founder’s Literary Leadership: Gabriela Marie Milton herself is a #1 Amazon Bestselling Author, Pushcart Prize nominee, and recipient of Author of the Year 2019 at Spillwords NYC. Her editorial expertise and poetic vision guide the press with authenticity and authority.

As Christina Schwarz, author of the New York Times Bestseller Drowning Ruth, has said of Gabriela’s work:

“With lush language and lavish imagery, Gabriela M. evokes a fantastic world ripe with emotion.”

This same richness and integrity are reflected in every project undertaken by Literary Revelations Publishing House.

Why They Deserve the Title Best Publisher in the USA of 2025

When evaluating candidates for this award, the Best of Best Review committee considered key criteria: literary excellence, editorial integrity, cultural contribution, innovation, and global impact. Literary Revelations excelled across every measure.

Their story is not just one of publishing success—it is about elevating literature and art to a space of reverence and immortality. They bring poetry into temples, anthologies into museums, and fine photography into international exhibitions, proving that publishing can transcend boundaries and inspire generations. At its core, Literary Revelations stands for authenticity, vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the arts.

Pros of Literary Revelations Publishing House

Internationally respected for both innovation and tradition

Recognized as Best Publisher in the USA of 2025

Publishes #1 Amazon Bestsellers across multiple genres

Anthologies included in prestigious Japanese literary institutions

Selective and meticulous editorial process focused on quality

Launching groundbreaking art publications

Guided by award-winning poet and editor Gabriela Marie Milton

Active in fostering literary culture through journals and festivals

Link: https://bestofbestreview.com/awards/literary-revelations-publishing-house-best-publisher-in-the-usa-of-2025

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET THAT LITERARY REVELATIONS IS PREPARING TO LAUNCH NAOKI KIMURA’S SPLENDID ALBUM LULLASCAPES IN LIGHT AND SHADOW.

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE AND STAY TUNED!

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books.
Please read other reviews here:

Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku published by Literary Revelations becomes #1 Top Release in Poetry Anthologies

We are thrilled to let you know that Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku just became #1 Top Release in Poetry Anthology.

Congratulations to all contributors and thank you to all my followers.

You can get the book here:

In the morning before the book came out, I was ready to post two haiku from the book.

I will post them now so you can enjoy.

Two Haiku by I.V. Greco

This is what I write
Words so pleasing and nice
Yet – tears cloud my sight

I heard a calling
Amidst the chaos of life
“Come to Paradise”

Have a beautiful weekend, and thank you!

Three Monoku(s) by Gabriela Marie Milton and Updates on Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku

Skies, imperishable yellows coiled around your finger.

Under the coldness of your eyes, a flower blooms.

Prophesies melt in the waters of a changing time.

UPDATE:

Literary Revelations is thrilled to announce that we have finished the selections for Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku. If we selected an author, we selected the entire block of five haiku the respective author wrote. We included over 240 authors. This week, you, my dearest contributors, will receive an email of acceptance/and, regretfully, some of you of rejection. Please stay tuned.

Thank you for submitting and making Literary Revelations a great publishing house.

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books.
Please read other reviews here:

Christina Schwarz, the author of the New York Times Bestseller “Drowning Ruth.”

“With lush language and lavish imagery, Gabriela Marie Milton. evokes a fantastic world ripe with emotion.”
Christina Schwartz

Edited Collections:
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Hidden in Childhood (Literary Revelations)
#1 Amazon bestseller,Petals of Haiku (Literary Revelations)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Wounds I Healed: The Poetry of Strong Women (EIF)

Just got the most exhilarating news to share with you – I was rewarded with a Seasonal Bonus by META (IG)

Just got the most exhilarating news to share with those who like my poetry – I scored a seasonal bonus from META! Imagine my joy, popping champagne in my living room, the colored bubbles mirroring the glow of my screen as I read the notification. This isn’t just money; it’s a high-five from the universe, a pat on the back for all the late nights and creative brainstorming days. It’s like META (IG) just handed me the key to a treasure chest of possibilities. I am not only an university professor. I am also the President of the Board of Directors of an NGO, and a publisher, as same of you may know already. Every penny I will make on this bonus will go to charity and I honestly hope will make more than $10. The bonus is based on the quality of my own content on IG and the number of likes and views. Please don’t rush to follow me on IG [LOL] @gabriela_marie_milton … Kidding, please do.

So here’s to new beginnings, to celebrations, and to the incredible feeling of being rewarded for your passion. Let’s toast to this moment, because if this is how the year starts, imagine how epic the end will be! #BonusSeason #META #DreamBig

To my cherished followers on Instagram, a heartfelt thank you. Each of you adds a touch of beauty and elegance to my journey, turning every post into a shared moment of joy and inspiration. Your support is the silent poetry that graces my feed, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Here’s to many more moments of beauty and elegance together. 🌸✨

“Only a select group of creators are invited to the Instagram’s seasonal bonuses at this time. For a limited time, Instagram is testing seasonal bonuses, which reward creators for the performance of their content“: read more here.

Thank you! Gracias! Merci beaucoup! Vielen Dank! 有り難!

Reminders:

Literary Revelations invites you to unleash your poetic prowess and be part of our upcoming poetry collection entitled Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku. With a cover designed by our of award-winning Japanese artist Hikari, and with artistic photos by award-winning Japanese photographer Naoki Kimura included, please do not miss the chance to have your words grace the pages of our anthology.

Submit 5 haiku (s) at literaryrevelations@pm.me
Label your submission: 5 Haiku
Submissions close on February 28.

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Tag: Literary Revelations Publishing House

In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton

In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton

A thought and some reminder

Call for Submission from Literary Revelations

My books (Only English)

Like this:

Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton – What to expect and a Surprise

Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton

The novelty brought by the book – Different interpretations of the same image

Surprise

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Like this:

Lullscapes in Light and Shadow by Naoki Kimura is now an Amazon bestseller and Top New Release in Black and White Photography

Like this:

LITERARY REVELATIONS PUBLISHING HOUSE NOMINATED BEST PUBLISHER IN THE USA 2025 BY BEST OF BEST REVIEW

From the award announcement:

A Publisher That Redefines Excellence

Why They Deserve the Title Best Publisher in the USA of 2025

Pros of Literary Revelations Publishing House

Like this:

Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku published by Literary Revelations becomes #1 Top Release in Poetry Anthologies

Like this:

Three Monoku(s) by Gabriela Marie Milton and Updates on Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku

Like this:

Just got the most exhilarating news to share with you – I was rewarded with a Seasonal Bonus by META (IG)

Thank you! Gracias! Merci beaucoup! Vielen Dank! 有り難!

Reminders:

Like this:

In the Beginning – Poetic Prose – Poem by Gabriela Marie Milton

A thought and some reminder

Call for Submission from Literary Revelations

My books (Only English)

Like this:

Lull, Harmony, and Power in Japanese Art by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton

The novelty brought by the book – Different interpretations of the same image

Surprise

My books (Only English)#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis) #1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)

Like this:

Like this:

From the award announcement:

A Publisher That Redefines Excellence

Why They Deserve the Title Best Publisher in the USA of 2025

Pros of Literary Revelations Publishing House

Like this:

Like this:

Like this:

Thank you! Gracias! Merci beaucoup! Vielen Dank! 有り難!

Reminders:

Like this:

My books (Only English)
#1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis)
#1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)