Blog Archives
The Fusion of Faith and Nature
In Foundation Under My Feet, you share with readers your journey through life’s challenges and your own exploration of the Christian faith. Why was this an important collection for you to share?
This collection was important for me to share with readers because I wanted the reader to seek their journey of faith and to unlock the deep realization of its tremendous value. As a follower of Christ, the more I delve into what that means through nature, writing, prayer, theology, and worship, the more I comprehend its intrinsic value to the heart, mind, and soul. I have also found that there is a gap in published works of poetry regarding a more subtle emphasis on faith, specifically Christianity. Of course, there are a lot of wonderful published works regarding faith, but I wanted to create a book that touched on those themes without being overly grandiose about it. I love the fusion of faith and nature, and that many people connect faith to nature on a soul level.
How do you know when a poem is truly finished?
It is difficult to know when a poem is truly finished. You sift through each word, each stanza with a fine-toothed comb, playing with punctuation, meaning, and flow. One day you’re pleased, the next day you re-read your poem and add adjustments you did not consider before. I have found that once I have completed this process multiple times, it is only when I get a sense of creative peace when reading my poem that I can ultimately say it is finished.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in putting together this poetry collection?
The biggest challenge I faced in putting this poetry collection together was to force myself not to rush the process and to make sure I had a polished book that fit the vision I was after. My natural tendency is to be a “sprinter,” not a “marathon runner,” so I had to discipline myself throughout the process of writing and creating my book.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your experiences?
My goal in writing Foundation Under My Feet is to give hope and inspiration through life’s great adventures, challenges, and faith. As I was in the process of creating my next book, this one came to my mind and demanded its creation. So here I am, writing to you, the reader. I hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I enjoyed its creation.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
The Aim to Endeavor: A Fusion of Reflective Poetry & Scenic Photography
Susana Henschel’s The Aim to Endeavor is a blend of reflective poetry and breathtaking photography that takes readers on a journey of self-exploration. The book wrestles with raw emotions, moving from introspection to a hopeful embrace of life’s uncertainties. Henschel doesn’t shy away from discomfort; instead, she pushes into it, uncovering beauty and meaning through poetic musings that feel deeply personal yet universally resonant. Accompanied by stunning images of landscapes and architecture, the book invites contemplation, offering moments of quiet clarity amid life’s chaos.
Henschel’s writing is a mixture of vulnerability and resilience. Poems like “The Origin of a Poet” question the source of creativity, suggesting that pain and joy are both necessary fuel for artistic expression. Her lines aren’t flowery or overly complex; they cut straight to the heart, leaving an emotional impact that lingers. She speaks to the human condition in a way that feels like an honest conversation rather than a lecture, which makes the book both intimate and accessible.
One of the book’s standout aspects is its ability to shift between light and dark, much like the ebb and flow of life itself. In “Chasing Affirmations,” she grapples with the need for external validation, questioning why we seek approval from others when self-worth should come from within. It’s a relatable sentiment, one that many will nod along to in recognition. But Henschel doesn’t just dwell in uncertainty—she also uplifts. Pieces like “The Reward of the Climb” remind us that perseverance, no matter how exhausting, is always worth it. Her words don’t sugarcoat reality, but they do offer a guiding hand through it.
What makes The Aim to Endeavor even more special is the photography interwoven with the poetry. The images, credited to Marvin Henschel, enhance the mood of each poem. The visuals give weight to the words, grounding abstract emotions in tangible places.
This book is perfect for those who find comfort in poetry that is both reflective and empowering. If you’ve ever felt lost, uncertain, or in need of a gentle nudge toward self-discovery, Henschel’s work offers just that.
Pages: 106 | ASIN: B0BS3KVDK1
LITERARY TITAN 