Exploring the wondrous horrors of life with Anthony Prieston
Bonus Episode Spotlight
Episode spotlight: In this special bonus episode of Travel Time Stories, Shannon and Ann welcome Anthony Prieston, the debut author in the Author Spotlight series. Anthony shares the creative journey behind his first book, Whispers of Distress, and opens up about the philosophy that shapes his dark, gothic, and deeply reflective poetry.
The Journey of Dark Poetry
Anthony describes his writing as a blend of dark, gothic, and philosophical themes designed to lead readers through their own imaginations. Rather than offering simple answers, Whispers of Distress invites readers to move freely through emotion, memory, and meaning.
Quote from the Episode
“I wanted the book to be shaped in a way that leads the reader to move freely in their imagination and basically go where they need the most to go.”
— Anthony Prieston
Embracing the Darkness
One of the most powerful threads in the conversation is Anthony’s belief that darker experiences can become teachers. He challenges listeners to think about fear, adversity, and transformation differently, an idea that connects naturally with Shannon’s own reflections on growth through difficult seasons.
Poetry, Numbers, and Feeling
Anthony also discusses the surprising relationship between poetry and numbers, explaining that poetry has a shape and structure defined by rhythm, form, and count. Yet he also reminds listeners that poetry does not have to be understood in only one way it can simply be felt, allowing every reader to experience it differently.
Listen to the Full Episode
To hear more from Anthony Prieston and explore his unique approach to dark poetry, personal reflection, and the wondrous horrors of life, listen to the full bonus episode of The Author Spotlight Series presented by Travel Time Stories. If the conversation resonates with you, share it with a fellow reader, writer, or poetry lover. You can also pick up a copy of Anthony’s book, Whispers of Distress, on Amazon. If you grab a copy, don’t forget to leave a review!
Host/Travel Advisor/Author
Shannon is the heart behind TTS. A storyteller and traveler at soul level, she believes journeys—both across the world and within ourselves—have the power to heal, connect, and transform. Through honest conversations, she creates space for stories that inspire reflection, resilience, and connection. Based in Texas, Shannon brings a deeply personal and authentic voice to every episode. Her journey has been anything but ordinary—growing up in a large adoptive family, navigating trauma and healing, and ultimately finding her way back to herself through personal growth, reflection, and connection. With a background in healthcare and years of experience in administrative leadership and travel advising, Shannon combines organization, empathy, and curiosity to create meaningful conversations with guests from all walks of life.
Her mission is simple but powerful: to create a space where people feel seen, heard, and reminded that they are not alone. She is Gen X, mother of 2 and currently working on her memoir. Her hobbies are travel, reading, and baking!
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