Prepare yourself for a unique adventure as you enter the captivating world of The Gryphon & The Lyre: The first half of this remarkable volume, Laborers, the "Gryphon" of the title, presents ten finely crafted short stories--graceful, insightful, and deeply human--centered on the lives of individuals and their work. Within these pages, readers will encounter an adventuresome autoworker, a conflicted attorney, an enamored Disney animator, and a spirited Irish maid, among others. The second half, Suites, the "Lyre" of our book, expands into the lyrical realm of poetry, beginning with a collection of 21 love sonnets, followed by thirteen light, heartfelt "etudes" that range from the whimsical to the enchanting. These are succeeded by two expansive, contemplative poems that invite and repay continuous reflection. The author hopes these offerings will delight you--and inspire you to share them with others.