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Life’s Transience
Exits is a collection of poems that moves in and out of nature, memory, and mortality with a sharp eye and an unflinching voice. What inspired you to write this particular collection of poems?
Nearly all of the poems in Exits were written between 2003 and 2021, before the idea of authoring a book ever came to mind. Three years ago, I decided to incorporate what I considered to be my best work into a book entitled Line Drawings. However, during the process of selecting poems, I noticed that a substantial number were related to various aspects of mortality. This led me to curate a more concise, themed collection, and Exits was born.
How did you decide on the themes that run throughout your poetry book?
I think my focus on life’s transience — the finite nature of our biological selves — derives from three sources. First, I was raised without any religious training, so from a very young age, I was left on my own to ponder the enormity of the universe, time and eternity, and the meaning of existence. I remember being cognizant of death as early as age five. Second, as a physician and neuro-ophthalmologist, I’ve cared for numerous patients with serious and/or life-threatening diseases. And third, since 1999, I’ve had to deal with the spinal cord variant of multiple sclerosis and the ramifications of that disease.
Did you write these poems with a specific audience in mind, or was it a more personal endeavor?
During the writing process, the intended audience was always me, or, to be more precise, the facsimile of me that constantly looks over my shoulder and critiques every word I draft. The word ecstasy comes to mind. It captures the elation I feel when a line finally comes together, but it derives from the Greek ek stasis ― to stand outside of oneself.
There’s certainly nothing wrong with writing for a defined audience, or respecting the conventions of a particular genre, or exploring themes and issues that are currently in the public eye. My approach happens to be different. What matters most to me are the words on the page, how they sound in air, and meeting the standards I set for myself.
What did you learn about yourself through writing this book?
The lessons I learned while writing the poems and designing the book (which are outlined below) may be of benefit to other debut authors and/or emerging writers:
- Write poems that reflect your unique aesthetic sensibilities. Try not to be overly influenced by prevailing trends or by contemporary poetic styles.
- Edit mercilessly over an extended period. Satisfying first drafts often begin to show their flaws only after sufficient time has elapsed to afford an objective assessment.
- Begin your foray into publication by submitting poems to literary journals. This will help you determine which of your poems resonates with experienced reviewers. Before each submission, make sure that your poem is a good fit for the journal.
- Be patient. Practically every aspect of the publication process moves more slowly than expected.
- Be persistent. Exits went through twenty-two revisions over the course of a year before I felt it was ready for publication.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
We live our lives counting moments, those we hope will last forever, and those we fear. In Exits, award-winning poet Stephen C. Pollock transforms these moments into sublime and magical music. With language both intimate and powerful, he explores the fragility of life, the cyclical truths of nature, and the mysteries of renewal that arise from even the darkest places.
Each poem is paired with evocative artwork, creating an immersive reading experience that lingers long after the final page. From myth to mourning, from dreams to decline, and from flora and fauna to the warming of our world, Exits reminds us that beauty is never far from loss, and that every departure leaves a door ajar.
Winner of the 2024 North Street Book Prize for Poetry, the 2023 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal, and seventeen other literary honors, Exits is a masterful collection for those who believe that poems should move you, stay with you, and change the way you look at life.
Step into these pages. Lose yourself in poetry that’s both technically exquisite and emotionally arresting. And discover why every exit is, in its own way, an entrance.
Exits
Exits is a collection of poems that moves in and out of nature, memory, and mortality with a sharp eye and an unflinching voice. Pollock balances images of birds, leaves, storms, and insects with meditations on illness, grief, and human cruelty. Each poem feels like an opening and a closing at once, a gesture toward beauty that never ignores the shadows pressing in around it. The artwork paired with the text deepens the mood, giving the reader both a visual and lyrical way to linger with themes of death, decay, and renewal.
I found myself pulled into the tension between delicacy and brutality. The spider spinning its web, the butterfly pinned by a child’s cruel hand, the leaves clinging through winter, these images stayed with me. Pollock’s language is careful, yet it carries an undercurrent of urgency, as if each word knows it has little time left. Some poems made me pause and reread, not because they were obscure, but because they struck me with a sudden intensity. Others, like “Steve’s Balloons,” were so unexpected that I had to smile even while feeling the melancholy underneath.
At times, the heaviness of the book pressed down hard. Illness, biopsy, syringe, tube, the clinical intrudes often, and it brought me back to my own brushes with hospitals and fear. That familiarity made the reading even more raw, and I appreciated Pollock’s honesty. He doesn’t romanticize suffering, but he does find ways to trace light through it. There is also a musicality to his lines that reminded me of older poets, the kind whose rhythm stays in your body long after the words leave your mouth. That mix of craft and emotion gave the book both polish and heart.
I would recommend Exits to readers who like poetry that doesn’t look away. If you’re drawn to reflections on life and death, or if you find comfort in nature as a mirror for human experience, this book will speak to you. It’s not an easy read, but it’s a meaningful one, and I think anyone who values honesty wrapped in artful language will find something to hold onto here.
Pages: 45 | ASIN : B0BXVJB79N
Pontus and Electra to the Depths of the Sea
In Pontus and Electra: To the Depths of the Sea, Shanti Hershenson weaves a lyrical, aching tale of two lonely great white sharks—Pontus and Electra—who find purpose and connection in each other. Told in a poetic, vignette-like structure, the book alternates perspectives, blending environmental commentary with raw emotion and surprising tenderness. Against the backdrop of warming oceans, human threats, and grief, Pontus and Electra navigate fear, loss, companionship, and ultimately love, diving deeper into the sea and each other.
I didn’t expect to get emotional reading about sharks, but here I am, completely gutted and grateful. Hershenson writes with a dreamy style that’s both tender and brutal. Lines float like seafoam and then crash like waves. I loved the way she captures the loneliness of the ocean, of being “one-of-a-kind,” of searching the blue void for someone who understands. And when Pontus meets Electra? I held my breath. Their relationship builds slowly, clumsily, beautifully. It’s not just a romance, it’s survival, forgiveness, and healing.
There’s no traditional plot arc, and the prose leans on repetition and abstraction. But for me, it worked. It made the ocean feel mythic, the sharks feel ancient and sentient. The environmental message about pollution, overfishing, oil spills, and the cruelty of finning hits hard, but it never feels preachy. It’s heartbreaking because it’s told through creatures just trying to live. The parts about Electra losing her mother were absolutely wrenching.
Pontus and Electra is a love story, yes, but also a quiet plea to look deeper, to care more, to recognize the wild hearts beneath the waves. I’d recommend this book to readers who enjoy poetic storytelling, character-driven narratives, or marine life in fiction. Teens and adults alike could connect with it. It’s especially perfect for fans of lyrical prose and gentle speculative stories.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B0F6VX7GDB
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.
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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
Fragments of a Random Mind: A Poetry Collection
In Fragments of a Random Mind, Hermione Lee offers readers a collection of poetry that is both engaging and reflective. Lee draws inspiration from Brian Bilston, which is evident in the intriguing spatial play in her writer’s note, setting a promising tone for the anthology. This debut collection is divided into five sections and encompasses 62 poems. Lee navigates various themes, such as love, life, the natural world, personal reflections, and motivation.
Each section delves into a specific aspect: the first explores life and love through the lenses of friendship, nostalgia, and relationships, while the second focuses on nature, offering observational insights on dawn, birds, flowers, and lakes. The third part contemplates the art of writing, addressing common challenges such as procrastination and other reflective thoughts. The fourth part includes observational and reflective poems on people, urban life, and the surrounding environment. The collection concludes with motivational pieces aimed at uplifting the reader.
Lee’s approach to organizing the anthology into distinct sections provides a clear thematic structure. This method allows for a focused exploration of each theme, contributing to a unique reading experience. The poems themselves exhibit commendable creativity, with notable phrases like “umbrellas bloom” and skillful alliterations in “I see people hurting people.” The collection presents an array of themes, leaving room for the reader to forge their own emotional connections with the poems. The inclusion of experimental pieces such as “Utopia,” “Modern Poetry,” and “Impossible” showcases Lee’s versatility, employing a prose-like style that is both refreshing and enjoyable. The descriptive nature of the poems, capturing emotions, scenes, and impressions, is a key characteristic of Lee’s writing. The collection showcases a range of narratives and ideas, offering glimpses of engaging storytelling and thought-provoking concepts. Lee’s use of poetry taps into its ability to evoke emotion and curiosity, suggesting exciting possibilities for more narrative or thematic depth in subsequent projects.
Lee’s debut poetry collection, Fragments of a Random Mind, presents a promising start to her poetry career. The collection showcases her potential in the realm of poetry as she explores themes of love, loss, identity, and belonging. Her use of vivid imagery and emotive language captivates the reader’s attention and brings her poems to life. Fragments of a Random Mind is a noteworthy addition to the world of contemporary poetry and a testament to Lee’s talent as a poet.
Pages: 132 | ASIN : B0CW1LX5X9
At The Beginning Of Yesterday
At The Beginning Of Yesterday, by Tiffiny Rose Allen, is an evocative anthology of poetry, exquisitely capturing the nuances of day-to-day moments. Throughout her verse, Allen weaves beauty and elegance into every line, presenting the world in a poignant light. The collection delves into universal themes, ensuring that it resonates with a diverse audience.
From the pangs of heartbreak to the transformative powers of healing, Allen’s words serve as a balm to readers who have traveled similar paths. Her prose has the ability to stir empathy, fostering a shared sense of humanity and reminding us of the interconnected nature of our experiences. With a blend of ethereal and grounded narratives, Allen escorts her readers through the intricate dance of love, loss, self-awareness, and the vast array of emotions that define us.
Each piece is meticulously sculpted with vivid imagery, metaphors, and seemingly effortless phrasing that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. I feel certain poems might benefit from a slightly more streamlined structure, but Allen’s writing talent remains evident. She possesses an innate talent to artistically render emotions, making them palpable to her audience.
At The Beginning Of Yesterday stands as a celebration of poetry’s timeless capacity to delve into the very core of human emotion. Allen’s anthology is essential for those who appreciate the artistry of language molded into verses that span the broad spectrum of human feelings. Ideal for readers yearning for deep, authentic connections through words and shared experiences, this collection promises solace and inspiration, making it an invaluable gem for any poetry lover’s library.
Pages: 74 | ASIN : B0CCT2JV1F
Poems Written by the House Cat
Poems Written by the House Cat by Allison Thompson presents an enchanting collection of soft and sweet poems chronicling a kitten’s journey through life. This delightful read is sure to capture the hearts of readers of all ages.
The book commences with the heartfelt words of a tiny stray kitten, introducing us to its early life, filled with dreams and longing. We then follow this unnamed feline character, affectionately referred to as ‘Kitty’ in the dedication, as it is rescued and finds solace in a shelter, patiently awaiting the embrace of a loving home. The wait concludes when a young girl named Emma adopts the kitten, marking the beginning of a cherished life.
Through Thompson’s eloquent verses, readers witness the evolution of the kitten into a playful, regal cat that basks in the sun, chases toys, and enjoys the occasional indulgence in gourmet treats like ‘a touch of catnip’ and ‘a dash of salmon.’ Each poem gives voice to the cat, sharing with us intimate moments ranging from amusing daily occurrences, such as retching up furballs or startling its human companions at 2 am, to deeper reflections on the simple joys of life. The lines, “So to all the cats still waiting, small and unseen/ Know that love will find you, in ways yet unforeseen/ For one day, like me, you’ll find your forever place,/ In the arms of a soul, who sees your true grace,” encapsulate the hope and gratitude from the cat’s perspective.
The concluding three poems lend a poignant touch to the collection, dealing with the passage of time and offering reflections on aging, companionship, and the realization of a life well-lived. Though an abrupt departure from the previously cheerful tone, these verses provide a fitting and gentle conclusion, sweet in their sincerity.
Thompson’s prose is accessible and engaging, with intelligent use of language that’s charming for children yet endearing to adult readers as well. The imagery she creates, such as “my pride worn so gently,” enriches the experience, and the addition of one photograph and two illustrations of a dark tabby cat further brings the character to life.
Poems Written by the House Cat is an insightful and heartwarming anthology that not only celebrates the everyday joys of a pampered cat’s life but also touches on universal themes of love, aging, and grace. Its melodic verses and captivating narrative make it a worthy addition to any bookshelf.
Pages: 65 | ASIN : B0C9STWZJC
LITERARY TITAN 