Grief Songs
I’ve gotten in the habit of reading poetry books twice. The first time, I begin to get nuances and a sort of orientation about the poet. With “Grief Songs” I also got acquainted with the Tanka form of poetry, which brings with it a new set of nuances.
That second emersion into the poems, and those winsome photos, was such a bittersweet journey through grief over profound losses but also deeply layered family love. The pipe, those saddleshoes, a dress with smocking–what endearing details. Tears welled up when I resavored the one called “Time.” A very compelling collection.
The Author
Elizabeth Gauffreau writes fiction and poetry with a strong connection to family and place. She holds a B.A. in English from Old Dominion University and an M.A. in English/Fiction Writing from the University of New Hampshire. She is currently the Assistant Dean of Curriculum & Assessment for Champlain College Online, where she is an Associate Professor. Her fiction and poetry have been published in literary magazines and several themed anthologies. Her debut novel, Telling Sonny, was published by Adelaide Books in 2018. Liz lives in Nottingham, New Hampshire with her husband.
Elizabeth’s website.
Her Amazon Author Page.
Liz will moderate this special event: The theme for National Poetry Month 2022 is There’s A Poem in This Place. Two places to find contemporary poetry at its most vibrant are in the blogging community and at live readings. On 23 April 2022 from 4-5:30 PM ET, the two places come together when a select group of poets from the blogosphere present a live reading of their poetry at Poets in the Blogosphere. Most poetry is meant to be read aloud, and hearing poets read their own work is a heightened experience. The event is moderated by Elizabeth Gauffreau. Please register in advance at https://tinyurl.com/Poets-in-the-Blogosphere
#NationalPoetryMonth
#blogpoetsread2022
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I think it is wise to reread as you say. A timely reminder that I need to get this book!
I’m delighted at how much more jumps out upon a second mulling.
Thank you for featuring your lovely review of Grief Songs, Joy! I appreciate it.
A poignant beginning for National Poetry Month.
Thanks again! Your saying so means a lot to me.
Poetry should be studied, reflected on, chewed over and allowed to mellow in your mind.
I save reviewing poetry books until I can do that. First time through, you miss so many nuances. (Yours is scheduled for the 18th.)
Rereading poetry is such a good idea. I am embarking on that for National Poetry Month. I plan to reread some poems each day. Wonderful review, Joy. And so well deserved by Liz!
Luanne, your “Doll God” is scheduled for the 11th!
I agree with reading twice, Joy. Thanks for this lovely review of Elizabeth’s book. It is well deserved for a fine poetry collection by Liz.
Thank you, Frank.
It’s a beautifully written collection. I agree, poetry does need to have more than one reading, Joy.
Thank you, Chris.
Lovely review! You have captured the ‘heart’ of ‘Grief Songs’ in this review…the details, the ‘deep layers of family love’ embedded throughout the poetry, and the particular style overall. Very good! 🙂
What an encouraging note, Linda. Thank you.