The poetry in “Seeking Ordinary Joy” tells a story…
…one that traces the emotional arc from restlessness and doubt, to healing and happiness—a journey we all travel.
Featured in national literary journals
Six poems in DJ Murphy’s debut collection have been featured in national literary magazines, as well as one that received the People’s Choice Award from Art Alliance of Idyllwild.
“War Wears Two Faces” — Dulcet (Winter 2025 issue)
“In the Chattering” — Dulcet (Winter 2025 issue)
“What Will My Dog Return As?” — Orange Juice (July 2024 issue)
“Wind and Bear” — Last Leaves (Fall 2024 issue)
“What the BBC Could Not Have Known” — Last Leaves (Fall 2024 issue)
“The Book of They” — Ariel Chart (Spring 2023)
“Our Hidden Heart” — Art Alliance of Idyllwild award winner (2023)
About the author
Meet DJ Murphy
During his career in advertising, DJ Murphy always reminded himself there is a human on the other side of the screen who wants to feel heard. He continues to do so as a guest lecturer at UC Irvine, where he has been teaching the value of empathy. In 2025 he published his first full poetry collection, Seeking Ordinary Joy. He will be one of ten writers featured in “Resistance: An Anthology of Overcoming” (Awatum Press) which will be published in July, 2026. He lives in the Coachella Valley with Sarah, his partner, and Bailey, their Labrador who also wants to feel heard, usually around dinner time.
Reader reviews
★★★★★
It’s not often that a collection of poetry examines the ordinary aspects of life and yet still inspires with wit, humor, and profound perception. This is a book I pick up and put down with a frequency that I find hard to shake. Murphy shows us that there’s value in the most ordinary things, and through his writing, he has an uncanny way of looking at our collective lives, as if he knows us personally.
★★★★★
Wonderfully natural and contemporary thoughts to refresh today’s weary and conflicted.
★★★★★
These poems and words are so needed in today’s world. It’s helping me find peace, joy, and acceptance in my day to day moments all while allowing me to feel the full spectrum of the human experience. Def recommend.
Seeking Ordinary Joy 