WHISTLING IN THE DARK

WHISTLING IN THE DARK

WHISTLING IN THE DARK

The brevity of the poem enhances its impact, leaving room for interpretation and inviting readers to engage with the details provided.

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WHISTLING IN THE DARK - Paperback – July 16, 2022

by Rose Mary Boehm (Author)

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cyberwit.net (July 16, 2022)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 90 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9390601819
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9390601813
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 4.5 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.23 x 8.5 inches

Rose Mary Boehm's collection, "WHISTLING IN THE DARK," offers a diverse and rich tapestry of poetic expressions that delve into various facets of human experience. One notable strength lies in Rose's ability to navigate and articulate the complexities of human passion, sensations, and thoughts. The inclusion of such diverse subjects suggests a wide scope of exploration, allowing readers to connect with a range of emotions and experiences. Rose's poetic genius is described as drawing sustenance from these varied subjects, pointing to a deep connection between her observations and the creative process. 

WHISTLING IN THE DARK appears to be a collection that celebrates the beauty and complexities of life through Rose's keen perception and poetic ingenuity. Readers can expect a journey through a diverse landscape of emotions and experiences, guided by the musicality and vivid imagery that characterize Rose's work. 

In "Waterways," the poet, identified as Rose, skillfully crafts a vivid and atmospheric scene at the pier, setting the stage for a narrative that unfolds with nuanced imagery and a palpable sense of anticipation.

The opening lines introduce the "green girl," creating a mysterious and intriguing focal point. The use of color, particularly green, adds an element of symbolism or enigma to her character. The choice of the pier as the setting enhances the maritime ambiance, setting the stage for the water-centric themes that follow.

The description of the pier's black pylons, wet and rotting, and adorned with sea moss, evokes a sense of decay and time's influence on the surroundings. The use of the term "abstracts" to describe the sea moss-painted pylons adds an artistic layer to the scene, suggesting a beauty found in the natural deterioration.

The mention of neatly rolled nets and an oil lamp in the bow adds practicality to the scene, grounding the reader in the daily life and activities associated with the water. The reference to an "early winter catch" hints at the cyclical nature of life by the water, where seasons dictate routines.

The brevity of the poem enhances its impact, leaving room for interpretation and inviting readers to engage with the details provided. Rose demonstrates a talent for crafting immersive settings and characters through concise yet potent language, making "Waterways" a captivating exploration of coastal life and the interconnectedness of nature and human presence.

Waterways
The green girl waited at the pier.
Hovered around the black pylons,
wet and rotting, lashed by the waves,
painted in abstracts
by sea moss.
Fernando pushed out his boat.
Young, brown, muscular and carefree.
The birds screeched in anticipation
of his return. Sea lions pretended
not to notice. Nets neatly rolled,
ready for an early winter catch.
Oil lamp in the bow (p. 17)

Also "Before the Storm" is a poignant and contemplative poem that artfully weaves together themes of art, mortality, and personal reflection. The vivid imagery of the old black artist in his North London turret, painting to the music of Shostakovich, sets a scene of dedication and isolation. The fusion of music with acrylics on the walls creates a rich sensory experience, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different forms of artistic expression.

Before the Storm
The old black artist is dying in his turret in North London
where for over half a century he painted Shostakovich.
The walls have absorbed music fused with acrylics.
I wind wreaths for princes without castles,
those who use paper bags for helmets.
Gods shape universes
from broken shrines.
I lost you because
I wasn’t there. (p. 69)

This is a great poetry book! 

                                                                                                                               -Reviewed by Rochak