I love books of poetry.
They’re so reverent and revealing and raw. Because poetry is one of the oldest forms of literary expression, I believe all books of poems share a common understanding of what it means to be human. And even though poetry as a genre doesn’t have the national renown as it once did (the wealthy would often fund the life and works of new poets), it is still no different in its expressions of the truest moments of the human experience.
Sharon Arsego’s book of poems is no different.
Absolutely beautiful lines of versed infused with authenticity, vulnerability, and an honest examination of a life fully lived. The book handles various themes including nature, womanhood, romance, self-reliance, heartbreak, and restoration. One thing I appreciated so much about this book was its simplicity. Don’t get me wrong, I love a nice complicated piece of verse, but the simplicity of this collection was conducive to the different subjects and themes. Instead of being distracted by the format of the poems or the non-traditional styles, these poems point the reader back to what is meant to be focused on: the poems themelves.
I always underline and write down my favorite quotes from poems and keep them in my reading journals. I find this practice cements the beauties of language into my psyche. Some of my favorite quotes from Cadence are:
“My thoughts are tailored / to the now / I’m confused with the business / of writing myself free” (1).
“Find it make your way / despite the jagged lines” (56).
“Sometimes you’re the lighthouse / Sometimes you’re the shipwreck” (97).
Check out this beautiful book of poetry here! And give Sharon some love when you do!
Riley! What a wonderful review! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts about my debut book of poems! Cadence was thirty years in the making, with a lot of life lived in that time, much of it coming to life again and again in between the pages of Cadence. There’s more to come in book two, Behind the Blue, as well. And Thank you, too, for commenting on the simplicity of my writing. I want my work to create bridges with the readers, not build walls.
You’re very welcome! I meant every word. I’m very excited to read the second book! Poetry really should be a bridge builder, not a wall builder, and I think your book accomplishes that beautifully.