Insistence, Persistence, and Resistance, by Lee Orlich Bertram, is a collection of poetry that delves into deeply personal reflections on life, love, history, and the passage of time. The poems range from intimate family memories to meditations on world events, offering readers a mosaic of emotions and thoughts. Bertram explores themes of identity, heritage, personal growth, and the impact of historical moments, with each piece contributing to a wider narrative of human experience.

From the start, I was struck by the accessibility of Bertram’s writing. The language isn’t overly complicated, which makes it easy to connect with the emotions in the poems. Bertram captures the essence of the creative process, and I found myself nodding along with the quiet longing for inspiration that comes when writing doesn’t come easily. The simplicity of the words invites readers into Bertram’s world without any pretension, which is something I really appreciated. It made me feel like I was having a conversation with the author, rather than reading something distant and inaccessible. There are moments when the collection dives into deeper, more layered imagery that feels profound without being overwhelming. “Traveling Through Jasmine Nights,” for instance, blends sensual descriptions of nature with personal reflection, transporting me into the author’s memories with vivid, aromatic language. I loved how the scent of jasmine became more than just a detail—it was a bridge to nostalgia and personal escape. This balance between the everyday and the poetic makes the collection feel grounded while still giving space for introspection.

I also found the historical references woven into the collection particularly compelling. Life on the Hindenburg uses the tragedy of the airship disaster as a metaphor for political and societal upheaval, which was both chilling and thought-provoking. It is one of those poems readers will want to sit with for a moment after reading. The way Bertram ties personal and global history together gave the collection a sense of weight, reminding me of how personal narratives are often shaped by larger historical forces.

Insistence, Persistence, and Resistance is a heartfelt and reflective collection that will appeal to readers who enjoy poetry grounded in both personal and historical experience. Bertram’s writing is accessible yet thoughtful, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore themes of identity, memory, and resilience. Whether you are new to poetry or a seasoned reader, you’ll find something to connect with in Bertram’s selections.

Pages: 96 | ISBN : 978-1639805440