An experience I had as a boy and the way my grandfather handled it has, for me, become a template for developing character.
Grandfather’s Challenges
Navigating the land mines of the past.
Navigating the land mines of the past.
Manliness: The Question
Questioning masculinity.
The ‘Monstrous’ Male Libido: A Compassionate View
In a culture where to need is a sin, we find ourselves needing sinful things.
In a culture where to need is a sin, we find ourselves needing sinful things.
Crossing The Masculine Cultural Divide
Among my in-laws an important measure of a person's value is how hard they work.
Among my in-laws an important measure of a person’s value is how hard they work.
Of Heroes and Absent Fathers
I am part of a generation of sons of wounded heroes - all of whom grapple in some way, shape, or form with that woundedness.
I am part of a generation of sons of wounded heroes – all of whom grapple in some way, shape, or form with that woundedness.
Writing My Way to Self Esteem
I still wonder about narcissism and try to understand and manage my need for attention...
I still wonder about narcissism and try to understand and manage my need for attention…
The Rest of Us
Tom Mallouk subtly and profoundly takes on on the painful subject of boyhood sexual abuse in this wrenching poem.
The Problem With Shame, Adulthood, and Striving to do the Right Thing
It’s only one of the reasons he’s driving with his wife to a charity event when he’d rather be doing something else.
Empty Nest
Tom Mallouk’s speaker reaches out in sympathy to the mother of his grown child in this emotionally impactful poem.
The Link Between Shame and Revenge: A Story
In this story, Tom Mallouk shares his insight about revenge, and how he comes out better for it.
Your Voice
Tom Mallouk writes touchingly of a deceased friend and the small bit of impermanence that remains.