the writings of

Joel David Compton

“Writing is an antidote for sloppy thinking.”

Russell’s Story, FIFTH PART

Russell heard but did not watch John approach slowly through the kitchen. Though they had had a falling out, they were still neighbors and lived in the same town and avoided talking about difficult topics, like baking and tithing. They were like brothers who after moving away from each other enjoyed the family reunions but…

Russell’s Story, FOURTH PART

“Why! Why! Why!” Russell slumped down again on his knees next to his wife’s body and brushed away the hair from her face. His hand shook as he moved the matted tresses from her forehead. This brought the fatal wound into clear sight, and Russell, through wet eyes, looked at it closely. The wound was…

Fall

Breathing in the air sharp with cool Dark green pines and grey skies brings Sweaters out of the closet and Puts hands deep into pockets. While Humans long for long hugs and Breathing in cinnamon and baking Bread. Beads of sweat are for August, But buttered muffins for November’s wet Mornings. Comforters are difficult to…

Russell’s story, THIRD PART

Russell came in to his home and sat down on the chair just inside the side door. He was thinking of his conversation with Gladys. She had told him that his daughter, Elmyra, aged 18, had been seen with Philip Harrow, aged 19, beside the church. They both were standing under a tulip poplar, green…

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About Me

Hi, I’m Joel. I am a teacher. I enjoy teaching English and theology. I am married and have two children. We live in Istanbul, Turkey.

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Turkish poetry

Short stories

Paintings