Blog Archives

My Lost Pages

Poetry collections are always an enigma, their depths as varied as the voices that create them. Sneha Sabu’s My Lost Pages offers an immersive journey into the poet’s psyche, where each poem unfolds like a spontaneous dialogue with her subconscious. This collection brims with fleeting moods and restless introspection, carrying the reader through meditations on identity, existence, and the enigmatic essence of being alive.

Written in free verse, Sabu’s poetry defies structure while embracing rhythm, drawing comparisons to literary greats like William Blake, Ezra Pound, and Emily Dickinson. Some pieces stand solitary, sharp and self-contained, while others spill into one another, creating a seamless stream of thought. Reading these poems feels akin to stepping into a lucid dream, where the boundaries between musings and realities blur. Sabu muses on the delicate threads connecting life’s vastness to her inner world, weaving disparate ideas into an intricate tapestry of thought.

The collection invites two modes of engagement. One can focus on the impact of individual poems, letting their emotional resonance linger and evolve. Alternatively, one might search for a greater narrative—subtle connections bridging the poems into a singular exploration of meaning. Both approaches reward the reader with insights that feel both deeply personal and universally reflective. A unique touch comes from Sabu’s candid notes accompanying each piece. These glimpses into her creative process transform the collection into an intimate conversation, fostering a sense of closeness between poet and reader. The transparency adds another layer of depth, allowing the audience to peer into the moments of inspiration behind the verses. Together, these poems form a soothing cascade, washing over the reader with their contemplative tones and evocative imagery.

The collection creates an atmosphere of serenity rarely achieved in prose, inviting reflection and stillness. Sabu’s voice emerges as both plaintive and probing—confident in some moments, tentatively exploring in others. She traverses the complexities of existence with grace and curiosity, seeking to unravel life’s intricate mysteries.

My Lost Pages is a lyrical meditation, one that lingers in the mind and invites repeated readings. It is as much an exploration of the poet’s inner world as it is a mirror for the reader’s own thoughts and feelings. Sabu proves herself a voice worth listening to—raw, reflective, and profoundly human.

Pages: 87 | ASIN : B0CX5CBV6S

Buy Now From Amazon

Honoring My Life Through Poetry

Mary Kay Rummel Author Interview

In Little River of Amazements, you invite readers to explore the human experience through your collection of poems featuring a variety of themes from travel to faith and religion. What inspired you to share this collection of poetry? 

As I began to work on this collection of new and selected poems, at the urging of my wonderful editor, Diane Frank, of Blue Light Press, I realized it was different from compiling my earlier poetry books. It was constructing a life in poems, a creation of a personal mythology. It took me a long time to complete it – more than three years. Fifty pages are new poems – the others are from my previous collections. I love doing readings from this book because it feels that I am honoring my life, the people, the experiences, the learnings that are its center. And I think much of it relates to universal experience.

Of all the topics you write about in your poems, what is the one that resonates most with you? Do you have a favorite selection? 

I can’t really choose one. Several themes unite the poems in this book and run through my life: the sacredness of nature and of the body, the lives of women in history — ancient, medieval, contemporary, the emergence of voice from deep silence and the spiritual silence we grow into, a lifetime search for meaning. My favorite poem in the book is a sequence of poems called “In the Margins of the Pages.” It originally appeared in my book The Illuminations from 2006 and came out of a study of the the Book of Kells, an eighth century illuminated manuscript on display in the library of Trinity College, Dublin. I loved responding to the medieval drawings with a woman’s interpretation. It pulls together so many of the themes that weave throughout all my poems – Celtic and medieval culture, architecture, symbolism, sexuality, interpretations of Christianity, visual art, immanence in nature. 

I have also written some wonderful love poems.

What is one thing you hope readers are able to take away from your collection? 

I began writing poetry as a response to life and a search for personal illumination. I hope my poems inspire others on their journey and touch people with beauty through the music of language.

Can fans look forward to more poetry from you soon? What are you currently working on? 

​I am always writing poems and making books. My challenge is to create beauty in new ways. That’s what I am working on.

I will end with a quote from poet Nicholas Gulig: In my experience, poetry, at its best, breathes life into communities because poetry is, in essence, a deeply communal act.

Author Links: Facebook | Website

Mary Kay Rummel grew up in St. Paul near the Mississippi and the corner where Montreal, Lexington and West Seventh meet near Highland Park. She was the first Poet Laureate of Ventura County, CA. Little River of Amazements: New and Selected Poems is her tenth published poetry book, her eighth full collection. Blue Light Press also published Nocturnes: Between Flesh and Stone, Cypher Garden, The Lifeline Trembles, as a winner of the 2014 Blue Light Press Award and What’s Left is the Singing. This Body She’s Entered, her first book, won the Minnesota Voices Award for poetry and was published by New Rivers Press in 1989. It was a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award. She was a recipient of a Loft Mentor award. Her work has appeared in numerous regional, national, and international literary journals and anthologies and has received several awards, including ten Pushcart nominations. She was a co-editor of Psalms of Cinder & Silt, a collection of community poems related to recent California wildfires published by Glenna Luschei at Solo Press. Her poems have been published in many journals and anthologies centered in both California and the Midwest including Water Stone Review, Alaska Quarterly Review, MiraMar, Anacapa Review, Gyroscope Review, Conestoga Zen, Pirene’s Fountain, Salt, Askew, Spillway and as a frequent finalist for the Pablo Neruda Prize, in Nimrod.Mary Kay has read her poems in many venues in the US, England and Ireland and has been a featured reader at poetry festivals including in the Ojai Poetry Festival and San Luis Obisbo Poetry Fest. She has participated in numerous poetry residencies including Anderson House and Vermont Studio Center and performs poetry with musicians. She has collaborated with artists in the US and England, most recently at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts. A Professor Emerita from the University of Minnesota, Duluth, Mary Kay also taught at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and at California State University, Channel Islands.She is a founding board member of the nonprofit Ventura County Poetry Project. She and her husband, Conrad (Tim), live in California and Minnesota, near children and grandchildren in both states. She can be contacted through email at marykayrummel.com

Little River of Amazements: New and Selected Poems

Little River of Amazements is a captivating poetry collection that delves into a diverse range of themes, from the intimate dynamics of family to the boundless horizons of travel. Mary Kay Rummel’s poems invite readers to contemplate the complexities of the human experience. Her exploration of spirituality, particularly in pieces like “Life is Losing and Reinvention,” is both compelling and relatable, offering a candid perspective on faith and religion.

Rummel’s keen observation of the natural world is evident throughout the collection. Her ability to capture the essence of her surroundings is truly remarkable, as showcased in “Seven Ways to Change the Names of the Days.” The warmth and nostalgia in her portrayal of her deep connection with her grandmother add a poignant layer to the collection. These evocative poems stir memories of time spent with loved ones, creating a sense of intimacy between the reader and the author.

The author’s mastery of language is undeniable. Rummel crafts intricate sentence structures and employs vivid imagery, creating a truly immersive reading experience. Her poetry is both inspiring and challenging, encouraging readers to view the world through a fresh lens. Ordinary experiences are transformed into extraordinary poetic moments through her skillful use of language.

For those with a wanderlust spirit, Rummel’s travel poems offer a vicarious adventure. Her words transport readers to distant lands, inviting them to share in her experiences and insights. Through her poetry, one can almost feel the sun on their skin, the wind in their hair, and the wonder of new cultures. Little River of Amazements by Mary Kay Rummel is an invitation to view the world through the lens of the author. Rummel’s work is a testament to the power of language to evoke emotion, inspire thought, and broaden perspectives. Her ability to find beauty and meaning in the ordinary is a gift she generously shares with her readers.

Pages: 236 | ISBN : 978-1421835570

Buy Now From Amazon

Choose To Choose Me: A Collection of Organized Chaos

Choose to Choose Me: A Collection of Organized Chaos, the inaugural poetry anthology by Elizabeth Knightly, is an exquisite exploration of love, desire, and self-evolution. Knightly eloquently describes it as a dynamic and cyclical journey of mutual selection rather than a linear narrative with a predetermined conclusion. With a bold refusal to conform to the male gaze, she masterfully deconstructs the female experience, asserting autonomy over her story.

The collection is an intimate voyage through the author’s inner landscape, with each poem offering a fragment of her essence. Readers are invited to engage deeply, perhaps recognizing echoes of their own lives within her verse. One of Knightly’s primary aims is to resonate with and validate the experiences of women who see themselves reflected in her words. The latter part of the anthology bravely addresses serious issues such as body dysmorphia, depression, eating disorders, self-worth, and addiction, offering solidarity and understanding to those grappling with similar challenges.

Structured around four muses and five chapters, the book encompasses 45 poems that narrate a saga of affection, heartache, complexity, and a tenacious hope. As an ardent Taylor Swift fan, I found the collection uniquely resonant. Each poem is paired with a meticulously chosen song, enhancing the reader’s immersion and emotional connection. This musical element paints a vivid portrait of each muse and amplifies the emotional depth of Knightly’s words.

I recommend this compelling collection to all, particularly to young women seeking validation and understanding. It offers an insightful glimpse into the female psyche for others, fostering a deeper comprehension of diverse experiences. The infusion of contemporary pop culture references throughout the poems lends a relatable and modern touch, inviting readers to step into Knightly’s world. Choose to Choose Me is not merely a book but a resonant journey, a heartfelt invitation to empathy, understanding, and self-discovery.

Pages: 144 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CJR74XNV

Buy Now From Amazon

Sharing Myself Through Poetry

Kendall Hope Author Interview

In The Willow Weepings, you explore a vast array of human emotions and connections to the natural world through your poetry. Why was it important for you to share this collection with readers?

It was important for me to share this collection of poetry with my readers because of the vast importance of the connection of humans. I wanted to share my love and thoughts with others about how I not only see but feel the world. Nature and emotion are found in everything to me and I love sharing myself and ideas with individuals. I hope to spark new thoughts in their daily lives and how beautifully complex, yet simple moments of life can be.

Are there certain selections in The Willow Weepings that resonate especially deeply with you?

The entirety of The Willow Weepings resonates deeply with me. However, the second half of the book (The Weepings) resonates with one of the most heartbreaking eras of my life. Everything in the state of heartbreak and deep emotion was either new or so deep-rooted in me that in the reflection of it, I have learned so much. I love to share the range of emotions I can go through because it is only natural and all feelings are of importance and inevitable.

What were some of your inspirations as a writer?

Some of my inspirations as a writer were the earth around me, my friends, the idea of love, and my physical vs mental being. Those inspirations highly influence my daily life and my art. I find myself always looking to grow and I feel those things support that idea in my life greatly.

What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?

The next book I will be working on will be a third collection of poetry, as well as a children’s poetry book. The third collection will be available sometime in 2024 and the children’s poetry book will most likely not be too far behind. I am very excited to be sharing more of myself through my poetry in what I know, as well as new territory!

Author Links: Instagram

Weep with the willows and dive into a collection of poetry full of connection to the natural world, human nature, and the journey of heartbreak. Nurture the beauty of every season life brings you through the words and emotions of Kendall Hope.

The Willow Weepings

The Willow Weepings, by Kendall Hope, takes readers on an evocative journey through the landscape of human emotion, skillfully blending the art of narrative and lyrical expression. This collection serves as a conduit for reflection, heartache, healing, and the blossoming of the self.

Within its pages, several pieces resonated deeply with me. “The Melted House” is succinct yet brimming with a spectrum of sentiments that evoke a sense of humility and wonder. In contrast, “Dung Beetle” employs a modest creature to delve into life’s complexities, demonstrating the compelling use of metaphor in crafting engaging poetry. “Today, I Am Happy” sparkles with its celebration of life’s simple pleasures, capturing the essence of joy in the mundane.

The centerpiece of the collection is “Soulmate Collector,” a unique and captivating exploration of loss that showcases Kendall Hope’s narrative skill. This piece engages readers with such emotional intensity that it may leave one pausing to reflect on the experience.

In The Willow Weepings, Kendall Hope shines as a distinguished poet, her words painting vivid images that stir the soul. Readers are invited to embark on a poignant voyage through her poetic landscape, a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression. This book comes with a high recommendation; Kendall’s expressive power creates a noteworthy addition to contemporary poetry collections.

Pages: 174 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C95J8Y4B

Buy Now From Amazon

Diary of an Artist in Love Audiobook

Diary of an Artist in Love by The Muse Frequency is a compelling audiobook that beckons listeners into a rich tapestry of love’s emotions and intricacies. Comprising 30 exquisitely illustrated poems, this collection delves deep into the multifaceted realms of love. The thoughtful arrangement of the poems is noteworthy, with 15 pieces under the banner “Love is,” complemented by another 15 that delve further into love’s diverse themes, ensuring a holistic experience for the reader.

Upon first glance at the title, my expectations meandered towards a narrative of love, possibly steeped in passion or longing. Yet, I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted with a symphony of love poems eloquently delivered by a harmonious female voice. This harmonious narration effortlessly whisked me away, cocooning me in love’s sheer elegance and universality. It felt as if one was privy to an intimate confession, almost like witnessing the unveiling of someone’s very soul through poetry.

The immersive experience was amplified when I opted for headphones. The mellifluous voice, interlaced with occasional pauses that allow for introspection, followed by delicate strains of perhaps a piano, further accentuated the ambiance. It’s as if the narrator beckons you to envisage an evening with a beloved, basking in the warmth and joy of shared moments.

For readers who enjoy love poems, this audiobook promises a journey that resonates, uplifts, and lingers long after the final note fades. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Time: 1 Hour 6 min | ASIN : B0CF6PM346

Buy Now From Amazon

My Love Affair

Love is a complicated but incredibly beautiful thing. Most of us know and experience love, and some of us are fortunate enough to find a love so strong that it impacts our lives in ways we can hardly find the words to effectively describe it to others. Author and poet Natalia Lazarus once knew a love like this–a love like no other. Her life was so profoundly changed by this romance that she was moved to transform its power into verse. Her emotions, experiences, and phenomenal words can be found in My Love Affair: Thorns and Roses.

My Love Affair: Thorns and Roses, by Natalia Lazarus, is written in a unique format. Lazarus has gifted readers her story in the form of poetry presented as a drama. This stunning take on storytelling serves to lure readers into Lazarus’s world and gives them a front-row seat to all of the trials and tribulations she felt in this once-in-a-lifetime love affair.

Readers will be moved by the eloquent poetry; they will find the prose engaging. The combination of styles by Lazarus creates a special kind of appeal for readers. There is both deep pain and love in her words. Both are almost palpable. Lazarus takes readers on a journey of her relationship. From the beginning, through its ups and downs, to its tumultuous ending. The syle is unique and fresh, giving readers an engaging format to experience Lazarus’s work. The raw emotions and openness with which she writes are incredibly captivating. I felt as if I was watching the relationship unfold through her eyes. Readers will not be able to help but feel compelled to continue reading as she presents every tender aspect of her experience. The beautiful photographs of Picasso’s work that accompany Lazarus’s work only enhance her story’s mystery and richness.

My Love Affair: Thorns and Roses is a uniquely-styled romance for anyone seeking a quick but powerful read as well as those who prefer dramas. The combination of poetry and prose will enchant readers.

Pages: 204 | ISBN : 1736313495

Buy Now From Amazon