Ryan Collins: Dear Rock Island

Ryan Collins (son of Richard and Susan Collins) was the chief architect for the 2010 Collins Poetry Residency after serving as the 2009 poet-in-residence for Quad City Arts. His 2009 residency served as the model for MWC's Collins Poetry Residency. We are indebted to Ryan and his family for their generosity and continued support of community-based poetry.

Ryan Collins resides in Rock Island, Ill., and is the author of the poetry chapbook, Complicated Weather (Rocktown Press 2009). His poems have appeared in many journals and magazines, most recently Greatcoat, Sentence, and Third Coast. He teaches college English and leads various writing workshops for Quad City Arts, the Moline and Bettendorf Public Libraries, and the Midwest Writing Center. Ryan also serves on MWC's Board of Directors.

Rock Island is one of four cities that comprise the Quad Cities (along with Moline, Ill., Davenport Ia., and Bettendorf, Ia.). The Mississippi River divides Illinois and Iowa. Like all partnerships, each need to do their part to make a relationship work. This is an epistle or letter poem.

Dear Rock Island—
It’s been too long since you’ve sent any word. Your eyes are wider than most of your neighbors, but what of your vision? What do you make w/ its attention? Why don’t you trust your gut? At least then new developments won’t flood. You’re trying, but the dragnet you’re currently prosecuting is excessive as best for a weekday—I know there’s a rock band in town, but they’re in compliance w/ the noise ordinances. I just don’t understand why you bother to hand over your care. There’s money to be made, weekend opportunity and the heavy patrols smother your voice. Say freely what you mean—if you refuse, remember that your fear is your problem alone. If you won’t take yourself seriously, don’t expect anyone else to do it for you. Call me when you find your care.

One if by land two if by river,

Quad Cities