Title: The Face of Expression
Author: Aaron Woodson
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-1-5462-2261-3
Pages: 233
Genre: Poetry
Reviewed by: Carol Davala
Read Book Review
With a passion for poetry, Aaron Woodson began writing in his teens. Now in his 30s, in his desire to share his thoughts, feelings, and observations with the world, his debut publication The Face of Expression proves an engaging semi-autobiographical collection of both personal and more general life reflections.
This wide-ranging mix of entries, some merely a paragraph, and most covering a page or two, addresses a variety of topics. Here personal offerings centered around themes of love, relationships both good and bad, and finding that ideal someone, are woven amidst more universal subject matter showcasing common concerns of humanity.
Woodson’s opening poem entitled “Beautiful Struggle” seems a fitting personal selection that takes readers from the author’s birth into his adulthood. Along his life’s journey he marks the milestones, complete with encountered difficulties. From stumbles with first steps and first words, then later dealing with the ups-and-downs of school, romance, and finances, Woodson acknowledges that maturity and wisdom rise from the trials and tribulations. Even his struggles with faith led him to Jesus and the ultimate realization that efforts are always worth the victory.
Overall, Woodson’s writing style follows a prose-like or free-verse design. While there are intermittent occasions of rhyming text, as in “The Living Arrangement” where he writes of a distracting household situation declaring “Trouble is brewing and on the inside I’m stewing,” this pattern is not the primary focus of his work.
Woodson is undoubtedly a man of faith, thus like-minded individuals will appreciate his poignant and candid references within his work to finding salvation with God, and honoring him as “the author of my (His) life!” “Revived” is a sincere testament to God’s guidance and understanding along his life’s path. Direct phrases like “Prayer has been my greatest therapy” and “God has carried me through the worst and best of times” are simple declarations of the major influence He has been throughout Woodson’s journey.
As a military combat veteran, Woodson also draws on that experience for some of his writing. The poem “Flying High” speaks of the power and strength of the US Air Force, and the need to stand our ground in the likes of the Twin Towers tragic assault. In “Military Appreciation” he asks for a simple thank you or recognition for the brave men and women who defend our country. Clearly a music lover, Woodson also pays a heartfelt tribute to icons in the industry. “Poetic Justice Meets Love Jones” is a shining dedication to the inspirational queen of pop, Janet Jackson, while “For You, Prince” laments the tragic passing of a brilliant artist likened to “a magician who dazzled you on stage with his creative wizardry.” Here Woodson’s detailed commentary is truly indicative of the admiration he felt for the musical legend of Paisley Park.
Whether contemplating the poet’s reflective thoughts on meeting life’s challenges in “Man In The Mirror”; being introduced to the wise and beloved family matriarch in “Greatest Of All Time”; or chuckling at an ode to “Hennessy”, the fine cognac that packs a punch; readers should find that Woodson’s unique and ever-changing poetic subject choices deliver concise, well-paced, reflective musings of creative expression.
