about
the origin
sweet moon press was created upon completion of my first book, reflect & expand, when I needed to put something in the "publisher" space as I was self-publishing it. The poem by Hafiz about becoming the one who "is always saying/with that sweet moon language/what every other eye in this world/is dying to hear" has been a favorite of mine for years and an underlying inspiration for pretty much everything I do, so I decided to honor it with the name of my little publishing company. I plan to publish more volumes of reflect & expand, as well as poetry compilations, journal-style books, and any other ideas that might wander into my life. I also enjoy creating bookmarks and cards to share along with my books (learn more about my paper art here and cards for sale here)
the inspiration
Admit something: Everyone you see, you say to
them, “Love me.”
Of course you do not do this out loud, otherwise
someone would call the cops.
Still, though, think about this, this great pull in us
to connect.
Why not become the one who lives with a full
moon in each eye that is always saying,
with that sweet moon language, what every other
eye in this world is dying to hear?
-by Hafiz, translated by Daniel Ladinsky
the mission
I feel called to put opportunities for reflection into the world. We are all so bombarded by information, and while information is a wonderful tool in the journey of understanding ourselves better, it is getting too easy to consume it passively and in quick, bite-size ways that do not allow for critical evaluation or genuine reflection. My aim with my reflection books is to balance the fast-paced consumption of information being thrown at us (whether we want it or not!) with questions and prompts that can gently guide us into deeper exploration of our lives in ways that require some stillness and intention.
the creator
My name is Emily Bowman. I've been writing poetry for many years, finding inspiration in just about anything. I live in Western Colorado, where the landscape provides me with an endless supply of inspiring images and experiences. Gardening is also an ongoing source of inspiration, as well as one of my favorite ways to observe and appreciate the changing seasons and the natural order of things. I have worked as a therapist for over 20 years, and my passion for guiding people through healing and growth also inspires my writing. For more information, check out this interview with Bold Journey Magazine.