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Ryann Crofoot's Reviews > Begin with a Failed Body
Begin with a Failed Body
by
by
*I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The short version: This is a fantastic collection of poetry that absolutely deserves the award it was given! (Learn more about the Cave Canem Prize here.)
The long version:
Holy cannoli! This was an amazing poetry collection. I took so long to read it because I wanted to absorb every word!
This book explores what it means to live in a body that has failed the speaker by simply existing. Writing this exploration through a series of memories, dreams, and even biblical, historical, and fairytale figures, this collection makes the reader feel like they can relate to the speaker's struggles, while reminding them that they may never be able to fully understand it.
Natalie Graham is, without a doubt, a master of her craft. Her lines were incredibly lyrical; the assonance and internal rhyme and rhythm had me hanging on every word, not one of which was wasted. There were times when something was worded so perfectly, I actually got goosebumps and had to walk away for a little while.
With only 44 poems, this collection isn't too long, but there is so much meaning layered into such a short read! I will definitely be rereading this myself, and can't wait to get a hard copy to put on my shelves.
Seriously guys, for poetry veterans and newbies alike, I cannot recommend this collection highly enough.
**Find reviews and more book fun at Ryann the Reader
The short version: This is a fantastic collection of poetry that absolutely deserves the award it was given! (Learn more about the Cave Canem Prize here.)
The long version:
"We become terrain. First a body,
then a shrine,
then a road marker
furnishing a crowded landscape."
-"The Way of the Shrine"
Holy cannoli! This was an amazing poetry collection. I took so long to read it because I wanted to absorb every word!
This book explores what it means to live in a body that has failed the speaker by simply existing. Writing this exploration through a series of memories, dreams, and even biblical, historical, and fairytale figures, this collection makes the reader feel like they can relate to the speaker's struggles, while reminding them that they may never be able to fully understand it.
Natalie Graham is, without a doubt, a master of her craft. Her lines were incredibly lyrical; the assonance and internal rhyme and rhythm had me hanging on every word, not one of which was wasted. There were times when something was worded so perfectly, I actually got goosebumps and had to walk away for a little while.
"But, Keeper, all names are curses.
You know how my body arches for the faithful,
brutal touch of almost family,
how the skin hollers to be rubbed
quiet with hurting."
-"Cinderella Sends Her Godmother Away"
With only 44 poems, this collection isn't too long, but there is so much meaning layered into such a short read! I will definitely be rereading this myself, and can't wait to get a hard copy to put on my shelves.
Seriously guys, for poetry veterans and newbies alike, I cannot recommend this collection highly enough.
**Find reviews and more book fun at Ryann the Reader
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