Two Dozen Penultimate Poems

Did you ever feel that you would never complete something? Joanna named this book "penultimate" because it took a long time to finish, or may not yet be finished. Nobody wants to reach the last chapter, so the second-to-last seems more enjoyable. In this 2026 collection of poems, Joanna's twelfth book has invented an unusual poetic voice blooming with humor, modern scientific references blended with satire, mythology, and historical references. Several new unpublished poems written in the past year, as well as some previous favorites are presented in this book. Her 9th book contemplated the COVID-shutdown years, in "Twenty-two Poems for 2022." Her 8th book published mid-pandemic in 2020 was entitled "The Nervous Dragonfly," and included many poems written from 2016 through 2020.

Do not call her the "Penultimate Poet," although that title offers a few chuckles. Second to last is far better than last, we want to remind the gentle readers. Joanna's command of various poetry styles has sharpened over the years, to the point that the humor, longing, satire, and mythology themes have begun to blend well into her own unique voice. This collection of 24 poems will surprise and delight the reader, leaving one longing for at least 24 more.