In the late 1980s, the vibrant Los Angeles poetry scene gave voice to a new wave of writers and spoken word artists. The essence of Don't Be Shy represents one man's passage through the eclectic coffee houses and performance art venues that celebrated diversity and uncensored self-expression. This collection of poems navigates the existential and often humorous landscape of love and longing, social commentary and spiritual awakening to arrive at an awareness shared by one who embraced the enigmatic creative promise of the City of Angels.