Timely and Timeless
This entire five-book series of ten poems, with deeply personal reflections and revelations by author Roger Housden following each, has become a touchstone for me. Any of the five compilations thoroughly redeems poetry with a common note that restores its universality (from Greek Odes to rap lyrics) and shuns the practice of parsing words and meanings to death. Each poem was mindfully chosen to be accessible to a wide population. The themes are contemporary, although some may have been written in the 13th century and others during the last thirteen years. The language is modern, magical and an absolute pleasure to read aloud. Many of the poets were previously unknown to me. The themes are enduring, the compassion and love palpable. It's a simple message: It is all about love, always and ever, love of self, others, whatever you may or may not perceive of as God, love of life and living it to the fullest. The poems valid the simple joy of being.
The author of this series of keepsake books helps guide readers through the thoughts and emotions of the poets themselves, and invites each of us in our own way, to open our minds to how their words may speak to or challenge our personal lives and world views.
In a year when I have faced many challenges, I found these books comforting and unabashedly daring in equal measure. Like a good friend who cares enough to say what needs to be heard, who forces you to rethink or justify kneejerk reactions. Who coaxes you out of dark corners into a greater acceptance of what can be. Many struck a nerve. Others were an oasis of pure calm and reassurance, a lifeline of words to carry forth and reread many times over.
I have already purchased multiple copies of each title to share with others. Like Anne Lindburgh's Gift From The Sea the insights and pleasures of these books run deep and the poems will speak anew each time you read them. Highly recommended as a gift for anyone you love, including yourself.
