Title: Anthology 1975-2020
Author: R.K. Clark
Publisher: Xlibris US
ISBN: 978-1664123434
Pages: 278
Genre: Literature & Fiction/Poetry
Reviewed by: Tony Espinoza
Pacific Book Review
In an age where technology is allowing people to express themselves instantaneously, and news can be read at the tips of our fingertips in an instant, it is not hard to see that there is a bit of art and romanticism missing from the outpouring of emotions one sees in a typical social media post. One way these emotions are being kept alive in the modern age is the pursuit of poetry for many people. Poetry is a universal language that moves through various emotions and allows us to speak more freely than real life at times. As Aristotle once said, “Poetry is finer and more philosophical than history; for poetry expresses the universal, and history only the particular.”
In author R.K. Clark’s Anthology 1975-2020, the author and poet brings together a strong collection of poetry, song lyrics and musings, collected over the writer’s life. From getting rid of bad habits, to views on religion, to dating and finding someone to love, and so much more; the author takes readers on what feels like part memoir, part creative musings, utilizing the poetry genre in a brilliant way.
The author has crafted a truly engaging book of poetry. While many poetry collections have invoked truly deep emotions and a wellspring of feelings in readers before, the author has taken this one step further and stimulated not only the heart but the mind as well. Infusing humor, wit and intellectual thoughts into the poetry and song lyrics the author has shared here, readers can get a sense not only of the experiences that the poet has gone through but of the person the poet is. The author even delves in certain poems into faith, not as a means of preaching but of expressing their viewpoints and feelings towards the faith they’ve chosen, even dedicating poems towards Jesus with “Blood Moon” and the events of his crucifixion.
This is the perfect read for those who enjoy poetry, especially when the poetry seems to reflect a non-fiction memoir of sorts as well. The book also fits perfectly for religious readers who enjoy personal anecdotes and feelings towards faith in general. The poet does a fantastic job of creatively showcasing the emotions they have experienced throughout their life without losing their unique voice and tone throughout the collection.
A masterful, engaging and evenly-paced read, author R.K. Clark’s Anthology 1975-2020 is a must-read poetry collection. The author’s range with this collection of poetry and song lyrics is fantastic, which proves to be a huge draw for readers of all genres. From humor and charm to overwhelming emotion – and everything in between, this collection speaks to readers on all levels, and showcases the author’s powerful voice in this genre.
