My Love Letter to Nirvana, “The Poster in My Closet,” was Just Published in Under the Gum Tree

My third essay of the summer, “The Poster in My Closet,” was published earlier this week in the Summer 2026 issue of Under the Gum Tree, and it is a piece that is especially personal and dear to me. I also now have a special appreciation for Dorothy Rice and the other editors at Under the Gum Tree, who showed special skill and care in coaching me to fine tune my piece into the form now appearing on its pages.

Under the Gum Tree is a quarterly literary arts magazine that publishes only creative nonfication and visual art, founded upon the belief in the power of sharing a story without shame. Its editors search for works by authors who share even the ugly parts of their stories “with pure, unadulterated, raw, candid vulnerability.” Its issues also often include pieces inspired by films, food, and, as in my case, music.

“The Poster in My Closet” is my love letter to the music of Nirvana and the role their music has played in the darkest moments of my life. Writing it also helped me to understand why music has always seemed to matter more to me than most people I meet, and how losing myself in explosive alternative rock music provides a cathartic release that has always made me feel more alive.

I’m particularly honored to have my work ride under this magazine’s banner. Under the Gum Tree initially passed on “Poster,” but provided me excellent feedback and suggestions for how it might be improved and–quite generously and unexpectedly–invited me to rewrite and resubmit it. Then after they liked its reincarnation, their editorial staff molded it further into the piece you’ll read. As an untrained author who first discovered creative writing in middle age, guidance like this is worth more than gold.

Although a link to my essay can be found above, print or digital issues of Under the Gum Tree can also be purchased on their website for $7.99, or $16.00 for both print and digital. They also offer annual subscriptions for $20.00 (digital only) or $80.00 (digital and print).

Thank you, Under the Gum Tree!