Politics of the Minotaur is a collection of short poems by award-winning poet Karla K. Morton. The poems discuss times in one’s life that make people question their fate and destiny. It might be a happy moment or a sad one, a big or a small one. But in these moments, you sometimes question your life and what the universe has in store for you. The common theme is that all these events become our identity and come to define us. This collection of poems explores these moments in various lifetimes and embraces them.

Karla is known to take her inspiration from nature. That’s not just limited to observing nature and writing about it. Rather it is seen across all her works with a keen eye for small details and beauty of life, faith and trust in the process, and the belief that everything is a part of a much bigger plan and that there’s a universal force guiding us all.

The title Politics of the Minotaur is fitting for this collection. In a sense, the Minotaur represents a monster that feeds on human flesh. However, if you look more closely, you realize that it, in fact, symbolizes vitality, strength, and power. Hidden inside a labyrinth, to be able to access this strength, one has to peel out layers and layers to truly access the power that the gods have given us. While there are clear mentions of a higher force of nature and destiny, the book isn’t based on spirituality. If you’re just someone who enjoys observing and appreciating the simple beauty of nature and life, you are definitely going to enjoy this collection.

For me, the poem that stands out the most is “The Importance of Coffee.” On the surface, it is because I do enjoy coffee, but reading the poem and reflecting on it, the meaning is much deeper. It reminds the reader to take time and appreciate the moment, look around and see what is right before you and stop thinking about the future and other obligations. Focus on the now.

Politics of the Minotaur is a beautifully put-together collection of poetry. The poems, just like the Minotaur’s labyrinth, have multiple layers to peel away and must be appreciated with patience, just like nature.

Pages: 103 | ASIN: B09NZPWZST