Michael Fitzsimons, a former editor of Zealandia Catholic Newspaper, is a director of Wellington-based communications and publishing company, FitzBeck Creative.
He has written a number of books, including the Wellington Book and the NZ Book, but this is his first book of poems.
The collection, called Now You Know, includes poems by Michael Fitzsimons and photographs by Philip Birch.
It will be launched at St Joseph’s, Mt Victoria on Thursday, September 24, 6pm. All are welcome.
“This collection features a series of vibrant weather photographs taken by Philip who was a wonderful friend for more than 40 years,” says Michael.
“After Philip was diagnosed with terminal cancer, we decided we should collaborate on a publication. I’ve been a writer most of my working life and he had a store of great weather photographs.”
“We knew we were unlikely to get it published in time. Philip died last October so my goal was to complete the project over the next year.”
Philip was a parishioner at St Joseph’s, Mt Victoria for more than 20 years, and established the garden around the church.
“Philip’s life of simplicity and service was an inspiration to many people,” says Michael. “He was a landscape gardener, counselor and former priest who always strived to live the Gospel life.”
Despite the sadness, Now You Know is a hope-filled book at heart, says Michael Fitzsimons.
“It has two parts – general poems that I guess you could say are broadly spiritual in nature, and a series of poems about Philip.”
“The poems cover many topics from new life to death and a few epiphanies on the way through.”
Copies of Now You Know are available from Unity Books, Wellington and by emailing mike@fitzbeck. co.nz
Now You Know will be launched at St Joseph’s, Mt Victoria on Thursday, 24 September 6pm. All are welcome.
Source
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