A review of Jon Shea's literary journal.

The Journal of Modern Writing.Vol-2 2002. ( Journal of Modern Writing, Inc. 231 Harrison Ave. #20 Boston, Ma. 02111. Jon Shea, editor. $5. http://www.modernwriting.com

The Journal of Modern Writing is packaged handsomely, as evidenced by the striking oil on canvas by Daniel V.Hejinian on the front cover. I got a rush copy from Mr. Shea, and though there are a few kinks to iron out, it is still a decidedly good read. Ed Meek ( I have had the pleasure to publish his chap, Walk Out), pens a poem, NAPSTER IS DEAD, LONG LIVE NAPSTER, in which a middle-aged man takes a secret pleasure in downloading a Samuel Barber composition: " Don't ask me why I transferred that song/from shooter 369 late one night, but I have to say,/It was fun./Napster was oddly exhilarating/It was a throwback to the sixties,/ And Abbie Hoffman's ghost calling me to "Steal this Book." There is also an excellent short piece by Somerville writer, JROY. If you are faint of heart, or frequent tea dances, stay away from JROY's , WE WILL NOT FUCK. This is a powerful blast of flash fiction that examines a one night stand in microscopic detail, warts and all. There is also fine work by Fred Marchant, Harris Gardner, Rosario Teixeria, A.D.Winans, and others. My hat is off to Jon Shea!