Contributor Paul Oliveri writes of David J Delaney: In 2007 David Delaney published his first chat sized book, My Small Book of Poems and at just 21 pages the title reflects the author's what you see is what you get philosophy. Key North Queensland topics such as the wet season, the Westwood Pub and the outback track are explored through the eyes of someone who has spent two and a half decades behind the wheel of a removal truck.
This author's attention to detail and life long experience really shine through in poems such as the Westwood Pub which was painstakingly researched by way of David undertaking more than a couple of visits to the watering hole over his driving years. Though there is also a very serious and emotional side to this Akubra wearing poet with poems about relatives and friends who have served Australia in wars from Vietnam to World War II.
David's best known work titled Diggers moved the Gordonvale RSL so much that it was performed at their ANZAC day service in the Far North and is a fitting tribute, not only to those who died but also to those who survived and live with the memories.
David also hopes that his poem Villers-Brettonnex, (from his soon to be released 2nd book) will be recited this year from the historical France service. (Extract from Foreword of My Small Book of Poems) |