On Low Gap Road

These representations of Kentucky life in the 20th and 21st centuries will bring back memories for readers, create bonds between generations, and honor a life of simplicity, work, and family. In 2023, Kyle Alvey finished his first year of teaching high school in the same school where his grandparents ended their teaching careers. His Papaw taught Agriculture and sponsored the Future Farmers of America (FFA). His Mamaw taught home economics. Their farm was their life, which he shared in during trips from Owensboro, KY to the Greenup Co. KY area. His memories of childhood visits include exploring the trees, fields, and creeks of the farm, walking through "His garden" (Papaw's), watching TV in the living room with his grandparents in their armchairs, fishing in the pond and searching through the assorted outbuildings filled with years of his grandparents' bits and ends. It's a purposeful reimagination of Kyle's childhood with a focus on those around him. It's a vigorous and honest reflection on where and who he comes from and connects the two sides of Kentucky that split his life.

The poetry explores aspects of childhood living on a tobacco farm in Eastern Kentucky. The vignettes characterize his Mamaw and Papaw in ways people of Eastern Kentucky will recognize. The author's time on Low Gap Road makes the connection between the different types of people who live in Kentucky. Their differences, when they are positive, make us stronger. We should all recognize where and who we come from and do our best to keep memories and narratives alive.