Blog Archives
Shadows Amongst the Threads
Shadows Amongst the Threads is a haunting, soul-baring collection of poetry that plunges headfirst into the murky depths of the human psyche. Written by J.A. Santana, the book explores the concept of the “shadow” — that darker half of our personality Carl Jung warned us not to ignore. The poems are a tapestry of anguish, longing, introspection, and myth. The collection moves through surreal landscapes—withered forests, shadowy corridors, dreamscapes, and apocalyptic ruins—while reflecting on fear, identity, sin, love, and collective moral decay. Santana threads together classical references, psychological insights, and raw emotion, pulling readers deep into a world where monsters wear familiar faces, often our own.
I enjoyed how immersive and atmospheric the writing is. Santana’s voice feels ancient and modern all at once—like a lost prophet speaking in riddles. The rhythm and word choice at times feel Shakespearean or Biblical, yet there’s also a grounded emotional rawness in many of the lines. Some pieces like “Darkness,” “Doppelgänger,” and “Rain I” are unsettling in their vivid imagery but unforgettable in their truths. You can feel the poet wrestling with shame, existential dread, and an aching thirst for meaning. And it isn’t just gloom for gloom’s sake. There’s an undeniable urgency behind the words—as if Santana is begging readers to confront their own shadows before they become monsters.
The language, though beautiful, is dense. I found myself needing to take breaks, reread stanzas, and sometimes simply sit with the weight of it all. A few poems are abstract or metaphor-heavy, and the emotional intensity sometimes overwhelms the clarity. But even when it was hard to follow, I never doubted the sincerity. There’s a strange kind of beauty in getting lost in Santana’s bleak, lyrical universe. It’s not for everyone, but for those who’ve stared down their own darkness, it will feel eerily familiar.
Shadows Amongst the Threads is a collection that rewards patience and introspection. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves poetry that digs deep into the soul and isn’t afraid of getting their hands dirty. It’s especially powerful for readers interested in shadow work, trauma, mythology, and the emotional weight of existence.
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0BKGZ6L6V
Salvation: Poems on Finding Love Again
Salvation: Poems on Finding Love Again by Pablo Camacho, an award-winning Puerto Rican author, is a profound collection of poems that delve into themes of belief, personal growth, love, and healing. Drawing from his diverse life experiences, including a military background and extensive travels across the United States and the world, Camacho crafts poetry that resonates deeply with readers seeking solace, encouragement, and the courage to embrace love once more.
More than just a book of poetry, Salvation offers a journey of emotional exploration. Camacho’s poems provide not only comfort and peace but also inspire readers who are mending past wounds or embarking on new relationships. Through his sincere reflections, Camacho invites readers into his world, sharing experiences that evoke a sense of hope and the possibility of renewal. The universal themes in Camacho’s poetry highlight the power of choice in living a life worth documenting. He suggests that wisdom is hidden in every corner of our lives, waiting to be uncovered by those brave enough to seek it. Camacho’s writing is marked by its graceful flow and vivid imagery. His use of allegory invites readers to explore deeper layers of meaning within each poem. In To Heal and Fix, for example, Camacho writes of a lover as “a flower planted in the deepest recesses of my heart, roots wrapped around my rib cage, and from my chest, you sprout.” This striking imagery creates an evocative and poignant experience for readers, engaging both the mind and the heart. Similarly, in the brief yet powerful poem Best Friend, the bond between friends is tenderly captured in lines like, “your worries are mine,” and “you are a treasure I will always protect.”
Salvation: Poems on Finding Love Again is a book that I highly recommend to all readers. Both adults and children can learn from Camacho’s mastery of style and rhythm while also discovering a refreshing perspective on love and life. His poetry opens the door to new ways of seeing the world, making this collection a valuable addition to anyone’s reading list.
Pages: 127 | ASIN : B0CW1N5L7Z
Tranquility, Peace, and Love
Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza is a collection of bilingual poetry centered around the themes of love, nature, and fantasy presented in both Spanish and English. What inspired you to write this collection?
What inspired me is found within the title of the book. Recalling feelings and emotions of love inspired me. Being in and analyzing nature and my surroundings inspired me. Love and nature are universal subjects and thus I wanted my first book to have themes that a large number of people could relate to. Life itself and all of my experiences inspired me to create this. God himself and the universe inspired me. I wrote this book out of a place of tranquility, peace, and love hoping to elicit positive emotions for the readers.
Do you have a selection within this collection that particularly resonates with you?
It’s hard to pick a favorite one, now I know how it feels when I ask my friends which one is their favorite. One of my favorites would have to be Like The Earth. Love and nature are found within the earth itself. A true love is nurturing and kind just how the earth is described in the poem. I remember enjoying trying to come up with the similarities found within love, a woman, and earth. I think it shows how we are connected to earth and nature in a deeper way, a way which we many times overlook or don’t even think about.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore within your poetry?
For me, the important themes were love, nature, reflection, analyzation, self-reflection, self-love, and connectivity to nature. We get so caught up being on the hamster wheel of life and in the bustle of life that we forget to slow down and take in the beauty of life and nature. Although life can be hard and is not always peaches and cream it is important to be grateful for the beauty and the positive things around us. This is something I hope my readers can relate to.
Can readers look forward to more from you soon? What are you currently working on?
I would like to think that writers and poets are always writing and brainstorming. I will continue to write poetry, and I have ideas on what my next book will be. I can’t say exactly what my next poetry book will entail but I can ensure that there will be more poems as this first book was a relatively short read. Before writing my next book I would like to feel content with the amount of support I have received with my current book. Even if it does not get the amount of support I want I will most likely still release another book as I believe it is important to create things and share your thoughts, feelings, and emotions and connect with other people. Connecting with others is what makes us human after all.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Amazon
El libro es una colección de poemas escritos en la naturaleza o mientras la observábamos. El libro se inspira en los fuertes sentimientos que pueden suscitarse cuando amamos a alguien o incluso en cómo nos sentimos cuando somos conscientes de cómo nos amamos a nosotros mismos. Es una inspiración de la belleza que se encuentra en la naturaleza y también de los pensamientos, sentimientos y emociones que se derivan de estar enraizados en ella. El libro incluye algunas metáforas que explican cómo experimentamos los sentimientos de amor. Finalmente, el libro incluye la intersección entre naturaleza y amor y cómo el amor puede encontrarse en la naturaleza. El autor espera conectar con los lectores, ya que el amor y la naturaleza son universales y, por ello, espera que el lector se sienta identificado con algunas de las palabras escritas en este breve libro. Si el autor es capaz de suscitar un pensamiento, un sentimiento o una conexión con cada lector, entonces ha hecho su trabajo.
Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza
Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza, authored by Abraham Garcia, is an eloquent compilation of bilingual poetry, seamlessly blending themes of love, nature, humanity, and fantasy in both Spanish and English. Garcia commences his collection with “Forever,” a heartfelt ode that reveals his profound appreciation and adoration for his partner. Through his vivid depiction of eternal love, Garcia not only celebrates the joy and serenity this bond brings into his life but also sets the tone for the collection.
As the book progresses, Garcia explores the intricate and inseparable relationship between love and nature, portraying them as fundamental and authentic aspects of life. His writing delves into the subtle, often unnoticed beauties of the natural world – the serenity of rainfall, the majesty of trees, the freedom of birds, and the warmth of sunshine. In doing so, he invites the reader to pause and relish the omnipresent yet frequently overlooked marvels of the natural environment. As a reader who has experienced love, the authenticity and relatability of Garcia’s love poems evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection.
His keen attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of moments speak to his profound observational skills and deep emotional connection with his subjects. The poem “Essence” particularly stands out, showcasing Garcia’s dedication and enchantment with his muse, evoking a desire in the reader for such personalized, heartfelt verses. “The Train,” my personal favorite from this collection, resonates on a different level. It vividly captures the tranquil pleasure of train journeys, echoing the simple joys of watching the landscape pass by and the inherent peace in such moments. Garcia’s skillful use of language and imagery in this piece mirrors these sentiments, connecting profoundly with anyone who cherishes similar experiences.
The bilingual presentation of this anthology is a commendable feature, making it accessible and appealing to a diverse readership. Compact yet impactful, Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza is a delightful read, especially for enthusiasts of romantic poetry. It’s an invitation to explore the depth of love and the beauty of the natural world through the eyes of a poet who skillfully intertwines these themes.
Pages: 70 | ASIN : B0CX47R7GQ
Keeping Traditions Alive
My AfroRican State of Soul: A Journey of Identidad, Struggle, Love & Faith takes readers on a journey with you of self-discovery and an exploration of what it means to identify as multicultural through your poetry. Why was this an important collection for you to share?
I firmly believe in the transformative power of storytelling. It possesses the remarkable ability to not only save lives and resolve conflicts but also to unite communities and, yes, even foster love between individuals. My poetry collection serves as a testament to the authentic narratives of my upbringing in a ghetto where resources were scarce. From the trials I’ve faced to the unexpected love I discovered for an absent father, each verse reflects the experiences that have shaped my identity.
It was essential for me to share these stories, mirroring the tradition of tribes and ancestors passing down their tales. Our stories are the threads that weave together our collective history, filled with both pain and joy. Through sharing our stories, we find solace, healing, and rediscover ourselves. With decades of development behind me, I’ve finally compiled these experiences into a book to share with the world, especially those who grapple with their true identity, battle imposter syndrome and systemic racism, and those that still believe deeply that love is the ultimate answer.
Can you share the name of a poem that holds a special place in your heart?
Numerous poems in my collection hold a special place in my heart, but as I reflect on them now, one particular piece stands out: “Mama’s Love Songs”.
If so, what makes it so meaningful to you?
What makes “Mama’s Love Songs” particularly poignant to me is the unwavering commitment it embodies. Despite enduring abuse, heartbreaks, and loss in her own love life, my mother remained resolute in her devotion to showering her sons with love. Through her pain, she sang melodies of love, nurturing us into compassionate men even in the absence of a partner to call her own. Her five boys became her world, and she would often declare, “No man will ever come between my boys and me.” Even now, I can still feel the overwhelming warmth of her love enveloping me.
Do you plan to write any more collections?
Yes.
If so, what topics will your next work focus on and when can readers expect its publication?
I’m in the process of crafting a collection of bilingual love poems that delve into various forms of love — for our children, parents, friends, siblings, and even strangers. It’s an exploration of how we nurture love in a world where hate seems to lurk around every corner, saturating our news media and perpetuating societal divisions rooted in classism.
Though I don’t have a precise release date yet, I’m aiming for the beginning of 2025. Securing a publisher might expedite the process, potentially bringing the publication date forward.
Author links: Website | TikTok
My AfroRican State of Soul
Lucas Rivera’s My AfroRican State of Soul is a captivating collection of poetry where the author invites the reader to explore themes of identity, cultural intersections, and social issues. Rivera, weaving through the complexities of being a Black Latino, Puerto Rican, and American, offers a rich tapestry of thoughts and experiences. His verses touch on a variety of topics, including his Puerto Rican roots, familial bonds, life in North Philly and South Bronx, challenges of societal injustice and racism, and the depths of romantic and communal love.
The collection stands out for its clarity and emotional resonance. Each poem, predominantly spanning one or two pages, is crafted with care, allowing readers to fully engage and find a sense of fulfillment in Rivera’s words. The inclusion of QR codes linking to live performances of some poems adds a unique multimedia dimension to the experience. Rivera’s introspective and evocative style allows for a deep connection with his personal narratives. Poems like “Love Letter to My First Born, Lucas Rivera III” and “Love Letter to Papá” are particularly poignant, showcasing Rivera’s heartfelt reflections on familial relationships and his aspirations as a father. His honesty and openness are commendable, providing a consistent thread throughout the book. Rivera’s poetic prowess is evident. He approaches his craft with both intellectual rigor and heartfelt sincerity, offering a direct and unobscured window into his thoughts and feelings.
My AfroRican State of Soul: A Journey of Identidad, Struggle, Love & Faith is a captivating collection of poetry that offers a unique perspective. From self-discovery to reflections on the complexities of identity, this collection provides a rich and diverse exploration of what it means to be multicultural. The writings are not only insightful, but also accessible and engaging, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersections of race, culture, and identity. Lucas Rivera invites readers to reflect on the varied facets of the human experience, leaving a lasting impression that is sure to inspire and challenge readers alike.
Pages: 144 | ISBN : 1952952557
Live Life and Truly Experience It
Still is a poetry collection offering readers an intimate picture of your family’s journey as immigrants and the adversities and triumphs faced through the years. Why was this an important collection for you to share with readers?
In the last 7 years, I lost a significant number of my loved ones: my dad, my grandmother, my best friend’s mom, my cousins, my dog, etc. The relationship I thought was going to evolve into marriage broke down during this time. I felt life had stopped giving me things and had started to take them away, which makes absolutely no logical sense, but this is where I was at emotionally. Writing the poems that make up this book allowed me to process everything I was feeling during this time. This is why the book is called Still; I had to learn to be in the present moment and allow myself to feel and process whatever I needed to. Also, in Spanish, “still” means “todavia,” as in I’m still here. No matter what, I’m still here, and those that have moved on are with me in my memories and what they taught me. We’re here, and this is our story, and it means the world to me that anyone who reads this book will know them and love them, too.
Your work features so much emotion and many deeply personal experiences. Is there one selection that you hold close to your heart?
Your review singled out the poem “To-Do List.” When I turned 33, I traveled to Paris for my birthday, met a girl, and fell in love. After that I began to learn French because I wanted to communicate with her in her native tongue, to understand her unfiltered. I wanted to know her, and so much is lost in translation. I didn’t want to be the “dumb” boyfriend who just nodded and said “oui” or “oauis.” That long distance relationship lasted two years and disintegrated around the time my dad was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. I learned about the best of me as well as the worst of me. How kind I could be as well as how petty. It took me years to move past it. I haven’t spoken to her since she messaged me for my birthday the year we broke up. Once I had some perspective, I took my 5th grade reading level French and wrote “Liste à Faire,” or “To-Do List.” With its simple structure, it allowed me to first write it in French and then translate it to English, which took forever, and the French version probably isn’t as sophisticated as I would like it to be, but it was important for me to keep the promise I made to her even if it was only in my mind, even if I never told her. I think on some level I hope it makes its way to her, and that she knows that I hold no ill will towards her; that the years we spent together I treasure, even the bad times, because it made me who I am, which I hope is a better partner to the women who came after and the one I’ll end up with.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from the experiences you share in your collection?
I hope they realize we are connected through our collective experience as human beings. That it is through these connections that we bridge the gaps between us and begin to heal each other. I want them to live life and truly experience it. To connect with others, love deeply, become people of substance, and most of all, to create.
Can readers expect to see more writing from you soon?
My first short story is coming out as part of an anthology from Indie Earth Books this winter, and I loved the experience. It’s probably one of my favorite things I’ve written and that has given me an idea for a novel. Also, I already have a number of poems ready for a second collection.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Linktree | Website
Still
Still offers readers a journey through the lyrical landscapes of Renzo Del Castillo’s poetry collection, providing insight into the poet’s inner world. His meticulous attention to detail weaves together narratives from different times, creating a vivid tapestry for readers. Through his verse, he invites us into his world of friends, life experiences, and creative musings. While not all poems may be autobiographical, it’s tempting to view them as windows into Del Castillo’s soul.
His piece “To Do List” resonates deeply, striking chords of familiarity with its portrayal of everyday tasks imbued with emotion. Without giving too much away, discovering Del Castillo’s prose is a revelation in itself.
The collection’s narrative style is both accessible and layered, presenting a blend of simplicity and complexity. Readers are encouraged to delve beyond the words, imagining the emotions and stories that pulse beneath the surface. The poet skillfully transforms romantic notions into reflections tinged with melancholy and sadness into expressions of liberation and affection, resembling a personal confessional.
Still, by Renzo Del Castillo, is a literary excursion that traverses both historical and modern-day motifs. It speaks to a broad spectrum of experiences—from the financial woes of student life to the profound love of parenthood and the trials of the human condition. This book demands leisurely contemplation to fully appreciate the nuances of its poetry. For those seeking an immersive slow-read in the realms of verse, Still promises a rewarding and thoughtful experience.
Pages: 160 | ASIN : B0CBT2Z7SB
LITERARY TITAN 