view from along the Pitt River dyke
I'm on Christmas Vacation (ahem) and am finally getting to the last 3 sections of book reviews. Sadly, because this was so long ago, I don't remember much about these particular books or magazines except the Rembrandt one, but here goes!
The Carrying by Ada Limon - Although I don't remember specifics about this book of poetry (or the next), I'm pretty sure I found both of them via Padraig O'Tuama from Poetry Unbound podcast. I remember really enjoying this book of poetry, and that it was reflective both of America has been in the last few years, but also searching a century back into African American lives throughout the decades of post-emancipation. (I think this is the one! I hope!) You can see one of Limon's poems here.
Latitudes by Natasha Rao - This book is described as, "abounds with sensory delights, rich in colors, flavors, and sounds. These poems explore the complexities of family, cultural identity, and coming of age. By turns vulnerable and bold, Latitude indulges in desire".... and I'd say that's a very apt description. I enjoyed it. Rao is clever and funny and deserves the accolades her work has won.
Rembrandt is in the Wind by Russ Ramsey - I loved this book. I first heard about it from The Habit podcast, and I was intrigued that this Christian writer was enriched by works of art from antiquity and wrote about them, and the artist's life, in terms of Christian values (ie grace, mercy, etc.). It's very well-written, interesting, and enjoyable. I would highly recommend this book for someone who loves art history, and likes to know more of the story behind the work.
Plough Quaterly: Spring 2022 - I have long loved my Plough subscription but I'm so slow in reading them! I had that beautiful meeting place of enough time and waking hours to read this one cover to cover in a few sittings. They are about 80-100 very full pages, so they aren't something you can finish in a day, but they are SO rich.
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