<< Back to Poets' Corner

Name:  Barbara Cagle Ray

Location:  Nashville, TN USA

Age:  I'm a '46 baby

Pets:  None

Favorite Poet:  Too many to mention!

Favorite Poem:  "The Poem I Should Like to Write" by Margaret Windes

How long have you been writing poetry?: I have been writing since I was a child, having my first poem published at the age of 14 in a college anthology.

What/Who inspires you to write?: My desire to write was within me as a child. I lived in a very rural community, and Mother Nature was my friend. I have a large collection of nature poems. Included in this collection are memories of my 7 siblings, as well as my mother and father. My "Nostalgic Glimpses" collection is dear to me.

Favorite Quote or Motto: The Serenity Prayer

Writing Awards, Publications, and other Achievements: I have been published in numerous magazines, including Woman's World, Christian Woman, The World Evangelist, Ideals and GRIT, to name a few. I have had poetry published in 27 anthologies by New Hope Books in New York. My poetry was featured on their 2001 and 2002 calendars. I currently write for many periodicals, including the Gospel Light, The Voice of Truth International, the Magnolia Messenger, and Smile. I am a member of the Tennessee Society of Poetry and the National Federation of State Poetry Societies. My poetry has been published in over 120 countries and in several languages. My short stories have also been widely published.

Additional Poet Information: I have been married since 1965 to R. M. Ray, a retired Metropolitan Nashville Police Lieutenant. We have one daughter, Shanna, who is a psychology professor.