“Mother of Life”

by Robert L. Martin

Cyberwit, Copyright 2023

Review by LB Sedlacek

In this sixth book with the same publisher (Cyberwit), Robert L. Martin states “I strive to make it better than the previous one.” In “Mother of Life” he does indeed achieve his own goal by offering a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition as he sees it with each of these works. Within these pages of prose and poems, this extraordinary book offers readers a vivid rendering of interconnected pieces that seem to be interwoven into what is an unforgettable and also enjoyable reading experience.

Martin also states that “having accomplished something is the best feeling in the world. It is the feeling I have when I have my book in my hands.” His book delves into many different themes. The author skillfully combines his ideas into a challenging but purposeful narrative. Also, scattered among the works are beautiful pictures or illustrations which add to the overall piece they accompany.

From the poem “Suns of the Day”:

“Sun of morning’s dimly lit

behind perforated canopies of

faded red and diluted orange

metal clouds of brownish purple

rising from the tombs of the earth

remnants from the rite of the Macabre

shredded cloth volcanic steel

liquid heat from smoking mouths

sun of the dark pushing upward”

The book is strong in its ability to evoke emotions and deep visuals. The author’s writing style is poignant but also poetic all at the same time. He is able to draw readers in with his resonating descriptions and depth of emotion.

Martin encourages the reader to deliberate contemplation with a measure of savory verse and texts. It is an ideal book to read for a variety of readers of many different kinds of literature.

One might call this book a soul-searching adventure of sorts. Martin gives us invention, introspection and inspiration.

He invites the reader to “Jump on the rainbows and slide down the sides” (from the poem “Clowns in the Prose”). He also asks the reader to explore the profound such as “together we were born, together we fall” (from the poem “Blessed Enemies.”)

“Mother of Life” is a remarkable book that transcends the traditional. It not only leaves a lasting impression, but it also is an illustrative testament to the enduring power of words.

~LB Sedlacek is the author of several books of poetry including “The Poet Next Door,” “Simultaneous Submissions,” “Ghost Policy,” “Swim,” and “Words and Bones.”  Her recent short stories collections is “Motor Addiction & The Renovator” and her poem novel is “The Blue Eyed Side.”