Doors of the Ocean, The

The Doors of the Ocean is an Australian Christian book of poetry, prose and photography for those experiencing suffering and those caring for loved ones in their suffering.

“We each need a hope which is a real hope for our brief lives, something which is stronger than us.”
– From the book

The poetry and prose in The Doors of the Ocean by John O’Callaghan is accompanied by beautiful film photos of beloved places in and around Newcastle, NSW by local photographer Stuart Scott.

This contemplative book will accompany you on your journey through life, or make a beautiful gift for someone you know in need of comfort and hope.

"John O'Callaghan has a deep understanding of grief, suffering, and faith—and their complex entanglements. This wisdom and compassion, born of experience, is beautifully reflected in this book. His poetry and prose, and the luminous black and white photos that accompany them, provide both insight and comfort to those who wrestle with the brokenness of the world and the way it wounds us. No doubt readers will connect with some pieces more than others. That's to be expected with such a profoundly personal book. But it's worth reading—and re-reading—for the gentle grace you'll find there."

“See these storms outside
And this storm within,
Where does one go?

This heart is rising,
Is now falling at the
Whim of blind gravity,
Pulled and pushed by
Metronomic tides.

In our knowledge,
In our fragility,
Inside mortality,
Does one ever know?”

– From the poem “Storms”