Where the High Winds Sing: A Naval Aviator's Poetry of War and Reflection

by Don Purdy

Winner of a 2021 Military Writers Society of America Gold Medal. Where the High Winds Sing weaves a vivid tapestry of flight from the experiences of a naval aviator who lived through the bloody brawl that was the air war over North Vietnam. Its compelling verse soars beyond the limits of prose to draw the reader into a visceral appreciation of the sights, sounds, and passions of aerial combat. The poetry ranges from the pure celebration of flight to the always demanding, sometimes humorous, often tragic drama of wartime carrier operations. But it also presents evocative images of transformative interludes at sea and reflections on the effects of combat, especially the loss of close friends. Don Purdy's accessible poetry is reminiscent of an earlier era when such poets as Wilfred Owen, John Gillespie Magee Jr., and Rudyard Kipling elevated "war poetry" to a unique literary genre. Many of the poems are illustrated with the author's own artwork.

76 pages, Paperback

Published September 9, 2020

Reviews

[Military Writers Society of America (MWSA)]

MWSA Review

This book offers a stirring glimpse into the soul of a warrior. Don Purdy’s poetry poignantly expresses the sentiments of a fighter, a survivor, and a veteran mourning the loss of his brothers-in-arms. The author, a naval aviator during the Vietnam War, vividly brings to life the experience of aerial combat as well as themes universal to the experience of war. The poems are written and arranged with great creativity and skill, and include not only depictions of battle and action, but also reflections on courage, loss, and the larger legacy of military conflict. Purdy’s writing is beautifully complemented by artwork, photos, and annotations. Where the High Winds Sing is not merely a book, but a masterful work of art.

Review by Zita Ballinger Fletcher (March 2021)

[Larry Duthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are many books about what happened in the skies during the Vietnam War. Plenty of choices. But writing that invites the reader to understand how it felt, what happened deep in the psyche and what took place in the soul, is rare.

This beautifully crafted book of solid poetry, prose and original art by Don Purdy is singular among the very small list of volumes that truly allow readers a deep dive into the emotions of the fraternity of men who flew, fought and survived that air war.

Buy it, devour it, read it again carefully and slowly. Don't tuck it away, for over time, you'll be drawn back to it. It is that good.

[Dan Eckhard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly personal journal of poems that lend insight into the mind of a modern day warrior, and the lasting effects of war on its participants. Highly recommended.