We lose keys. We lose wallets. We lose cellphones. We lose remote controls. We lose our glasses. We lose notes we specifically write to remind us of important tasks. We lose names of people and places on the tips of our tongues. We lose fleeting thoughts, ideas so brilliant and original, if we could have only held on to them. And some of us lose our minds.

Gary Rainford’s new book of poetry, Adrift, tells his story of being with a loved one as they experience the effects of Alzheimer’s. “These poems,” says Rainford, “tell the stories of my mother’s dementia and Alzhehimer’s disease. I never thought I’d have to take care of my mother like this, but we don’t get to cherry-pick when people need us most.”

Rainford will discuss his experiences caring for his mother and writing the collection and answer questions from the audience.

Author of Adrift, Liner Notes, and Salty Liquor, Gary Rainford lives on Swan’s Island, Maine, year-round. Gary is an award winning poet, published in a wide range of literary magazines, university journals, and newspapers. Adrift tells the stories of his mother’s dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

This event will take place in the Community Room and will be livestreamed via Zoom; FMI: elewis@rocklandmaine.gov.