Review

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P.J. Reed’s, Flicker, epitomizes the genuine beauty and essence of words through reflective, profound, fanciful, and entertaining poetry. As we read poems categorized as, Senryu (poetry structurally like haiku, that specifically displays the state of human nature), and some in the Haiku format, Devonshire-inspired countryside versification, convert a journey of ordinary moments, into engaging, provoking, poetic revelations!

The intricate and well-thought out strategy of dividing the explorations of her journey between the Senryu form and Haiku form, which is explained in the book’s introduction, adds a flair of ingenuity to this reading, further complementing the witty and knowledgeable aptitude concerning the theme of this edition.

Her elegant and eloquent poetic language is verbally and mentally inviting, forming real-life scenes most people can relate to (despite one’s background), thus, opening the gates to a world of evanescent verses that exhibit the author’s interest and appreciation for human nature.

Reed’s exceptional ability to transform a single moment, that perhaps, may as well have faded into time, and turn it into an ageless and priceless imprint, is impressive.

We strongly believe the precious flashes portrayed in this collection are fortified by the author’s ‘show-and-tell’ demeanor, subliminally teaching us about ourselves and others through word pictorials (show) and verbal explanations (tell). She skillfully executes this methodical approach by brilliantly displaying a variety of common sentiments, from melancholia, to bliss, all the way down to jealousy.

The additional details written in standard prose included with some of the poems, distinctively strengthen the substance behind each expression, as the descriptions provide a literal explanation behind the author’s poetic translation of thoughts. This is rare in poetry, as it is one art known to be up for subjection due to its abstractness; however, in this case, her brief elucidations seem to compel us all the more! Terrific feature! We find them not to be merely insightful, but also tremendously informational, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the beautiful landscaping and sparkling beaches of Devon, England!

In an entirety, after reading the author’s illustrious compilation, the smoothness of her words mingled with her analytical and artistic personality has us spellbound! Not to mention the fact that, adding Devon, England onto our list of travel ventures, certainly seems like a plan!
Reed, without a doubt, is a writer and poet at heart who has proven her love for the art, mastering one of Japan’s most ancient poetry forms, Senryu, while making the book relatable, intellectual, amusing, attractive, and universal to all humanity.

We are more than pleased to provide a 5-star rating for this collection and hope everyone has an opportunity to read and absorb the positive rays emitting from Reed’s words!

Simply outstanding!