Throw in some multi-instrumental music of New Orleans; add some southern blues and regional country lament, a dash of urban hip hop and rap, a teaspoon of head-banging rock complemented by the nuances of jazz as it moved across the US and the world, not to be outdone by the chords and phrases of orchestral music, and top it off with a cup of some old-school nuances, and you may get a sense of what comprises a master of words, themes, and storytelling. Frank A. Gladden (photo provided) Frank A. Gladden is that unique mix of soul and reverie, spices and flavors, conflicting emotions….he is a literary gumbo, a master of his craft, a unique and favorable blend of remembrances and hints of unrealized times to come.   Here is a glimpse from his story, “Things You Carry” from the forthcoming spring 2016 issue of aaduna:                 One day when Caleb was on his way to the deli, he ...

Dharma Lefevre (Photo Provided)   It is rare that you can find a fire performer, dancer, and fine artist all in one person. As illustrator of the new Merlyn Fuller book, The Merlinian Legend, Dharma Lefevre brings whimsical and subtle artwork to visually presenting components of the new age story of the legendary wizard, Merlin.  Dharma resides in southwest Florida but her sense of subtlety and grace make her a global artistic visionary. Specializing in creating Fantasy/Mythology artwork, her art forte rests in watercolors, acrylic, pen and pencil. While a single image graces aaduna’s excerpt from the book’s introduction, Lefevre’s work captivates the imagination and effortlessly weaves magic throughout the book. See Dharma's artwork in aaduna's coming spring 2016 issue scheduled for launch in mid-late May!  *   *   * aaduna - a timeless exploration into words and images - is a globally read, multi-cultural, and diverse o...

As a global literary journal, aaduna provides its readers with an intimate look at creative people throughout the world. The pending spring 2016 issue continues that tradition with a particular focus on the 3rd most populous city in India. Largely Hindu; considered the IT capital of India with a fascinating history dating back to 1537, Bangalore is the capital of the Indian state of Kamataka. For those who look to vacation in the winter and early spring, Bangalore’s coolest month is December with temperatures around 59 degrees F, and much warmer April temps soar to 95 degrees F. But the city is not what this blog is about.  Prarthana Banikya (Photo Provided) Prarthana Banikya resides in Bangalore, and is a poet whose work put folks at aaduna in states of excitement. Her use of imagery and rhythmic nuances is haunting and lingers in the recesses of your mind as you ponder whether or not you can place yourself neatly between the words and lines of her poetry....