Books2

2018 – Johnny Flaherty’s second book Gimme Liberty I Can Smell ! is a bold collection of neobeat poetry homaging a motley array of heroes. It’s a maverick’s manifesto that promotes “individualism” in a world enamored with collectivism. It promotes “freedom” in a society that values wealth and power above all else. And it promotes “pacifism” in a country waging perpetual war. Nevertheless, the author is undaunted by this challenge, believing that “to keep a flame burning” is a worthy goal in itself. With the ease of an old-school bard, Johnny blends storytelling with unflinching social commentary spiced with dry wit, satire, and paradox. At times, he plays the devil’s advocate, and on occasion turns history on its head. His tone is often existential, while his outlook is optimistic, encouraging readers to acquire a taste for unflavored truth. His poems explore many ways liberty is experienced and enjoyed; then, too, how it is so often repressed. Neil Dale’s freewheeling illustrations, combining whimsy with drama, augment the book’s spirit. And from the poem of the old lady on a park bench: “Life necessitates courage !”

2020 – In his third book of poetry, Johnny Flaherty features his penchant for offbeat storytelling. These poems deal with myriad aspects of life on planet Earth in the human, animal and faerie realms. Some are philosophical, others are fanciful, dissident, or edgy; with both happy endings and tragedies. Included are good guys and bad guys; cats, birds, pirates, banshees, as well as a couple of cameos from Mr. Hyde. The stories tell of successes, failures, and break-evens. Though a native New Englander, Johnny Flaherty’s Irish heritage flavors the book with its endearing individuality and love of language, along with a fondness for folklore and pub life.

2012 – “EBBING AND FIBBING” is a book of poems on life and liberty and dreams and death, with surreal storytelling and slippery wisdom, where “the question is truly worth more than the answer”.