The Lilacs I Once Knew: Friddie’s Poems is a captivating poetry collection with a compelling backstory. Roni Rosenthal meticulously restored and translated these works to share Friddie’s tale with the world—an account of a talented Romanian poet unjustly imprisoned during the war and communist era.

Each poem in the collection breathes life into Friddie’s emotions, evoking a spectrum of feelings such as hope, love, betrayal, and misery. One of the most poignant sections depicts Friddie’s journey of healing and self-forgiveness. Her profound words create a sense of shared healing with the reader. Through her reflections and vivid contrasts of nature and war, readers gain a renewed appreciation for life. The collection’s variety of rhyming patterns and unique structural elements keep readers engaged and curious throughout. Roni Rosenthal’s translation skillfully preserves the original message and rhythm of the poems, ensuring their impact remains intact. The book’s design complements Friddie’s touching words beautifully. Impactful images, quotes, and photos of Friddie and her family are thoughtfully placed throughout the book, enhancing the emotional resonance of each section and bringing Friddie’s story to life.

The Lilacs I Once Knew is heartbreaking, promising, and beautiful. It honors the memory of one of the many victims of inhumanity and serves as a testament to the enduring power of poetry and resilience.

Pages: 167 | ASIN : B0D9RK929F