Title: Almost: A Journey Through Poems
Author: Wendiann Alfieri
Illustrator: DeLaney Alfieri
Publisher: Independently Published
ISBN: 979-8649137287
Pages: 263
Genre: Poetry
Reviewed by: Lily Amanda
Pacific Book Review
Strength is not measured by how many weights you can lift. Some of us struggle in different ways, showing that we are here and we will not be beaten by our illnesses. That is strength. This is an extract from one of the poems in Almost: A Journey Through Poems, which is author Wendiann Alfieri’s rich collection of poems that are emotional, enthralling, honest, and thought-provoking. These expansive poems explore the themes of despair, hope, loneliness, love, and resilience among others.
The language used is powerful and musical. The tones in the poems are laudable and idyllic. It feels like the author is displaying her innermost feelings to the reader. The writing is well-crafted and the author expressive on a variety of topics. Wendiann does a remarkable job delivering the poems in a fascinating intent, rhyme, and style. It is equally poised but also layered with vulnerability and at times perseverance. The poet accepts that the past has passed and that time is nigh to take control and live her life.
Further, the careful diction and enjambment present in the poems is smooth and creative. Visual notes such as smoke rising, fake smiles, an artist’s hand, shallow pools, among others make the reading enjoyable. The rhythmic flow of emotions in the poems is easy to discern and rewarding to keen readers. Moreover, the poems present life-long hacks of dealing with life’s turbulent times.
You’re amazing as can be / My love grows every day for you / You have started something / No one can stop. We can only learn to love by loving. In the short poem above, Wendiann is fiery and authentic in her raw display of love, that which cannot be easily extinguished. I know that you will help me up too / Hey! / Where, where are you going / Please don’t leave me / Stop walking away!
In the poem “Help” with the words above, she creatively writes about the theme of betrayal using omnificent imagery. The language, though of mature nature, is simple and easily resonates with readers. The information, deciphered, as well, is bite-sized.
Admittedly, there is a poem that will ring in every mature reader’s mind long after the reading is over. The inherent desire to read the poems out loud is present. Almost: A Journey Through Poems by Wendiann Alfieri is both enrapturing and entertaining.
