Undergirded in a thread of tenderness the heart understands
Ariel’s Song: Published Poems, 1987-2023–In this definitive collection selected from
published poems that have already received accolades, poet Dawn Pisturino presents
a personal selection of her best work from three decades.
It warmed my heart to see that the author dedicates the book of brilliantly crafted
verses to her daughter, Ariel: the collection is undergirded by a familiar thread of
tenderness that soon endears one to this author.
In this 130+ page collection of 60 poems, there’s something for everyone in the
various styles and themes: twisted limericks to make you laugh, traditional sonnets
to make you think, love poems, dark poems, children’s poems, nature poems, and
experimental poems.
The book launched on March 23, 2024, and I immediately received my digital copy.
I would have reviewed the book right away if it hadn’t been for a family emergency
that has kept me numb all this time.
Use this link, please:
https://www.amazon.com/Ariels-Song-Published-Poems-1987-ebook/dp/B0CWP2MLPZ/
What a gift this book is! for its ability to resonate and uplift with a delicate blend
of words and symbolism that expertly balances nature and the human struggle. I
found many instances that resonated deeply and I’m confident a few poems will
do something similar for you. Some of my favorites are these:
“April Showers
I looked into the heavens And saw the face of God. He was a kindly gentleman And
not too very loud. He wore a watch upon his vest Which gave the time of day. He
looked at it: “The time has come,” Was all he had to say. And soon a gentle rainfall
Came from the April sky. It kissed my wondering up-turned face And poked me in the
eye. But then a very curious thing Did happen at my feet. A tiny flower sprouted up,
All blooming and complete. It opened up its tiny leaves, Embracing fast the rain, And
if I ever doubted God—I never did again.”
First published on Gobblers & Masticadores on April 8, 2023.
“Springtime
Springtime struggles to survive The clasping arms of winter, Stirring up the honey-hive
And bringing forth the flower. She hastens to restore the sun: The melting snows
recede; And when the sap begins to run, The worm returns to feed. A flock of sparrows
in the sky; A big, red-breasted robin Perched to catch a passing fly, His little heart a-throbbin’. Daffodils with yellow heads Bobbing in a row; Rich brown fields and grassy
beds Waiting for the plow. Winter, dying in the wake Of Springtime’s warmer rain,
Thaws the river and the lake And disappears again.”
First published in the World Poetry Anthology, 1987. Published in the Best New Poems
of 1988 anthology.
“The Girl on the Bus
The bus driver watched you in the mirror, His eyes wide with fear, When you stood up
in the middle of the bus, Crying like a terrified child. Passengers waited with bated
breath, Wondering what you would do. The sharpness of your pain Pierced me like a
sword, Deep in my belly, And I reached for you. My fingers clutched your purple dress
With urgent appeal, And you looked at me with mournful eyes, Red-rimmed and afraid.
“Everything will be okay, ” I said, Soothingly, as if anything I could say Could erase the
pain. Your wailing stopped, Like a passing storm, And a flicker of light Seemed to shine
in the deep water-pools of your eyes. You stumbled down the steps At the next bus
stop, And I watched you hurry down the street In perfect calm.”
First published on Spillwords Press on November 17, 2022.
I’m glad I purchased this book and recommend it highly. Now the transparent vase
that is my soul feels full and happy.
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Selma, thank you for sharing this lovely review of ‘Ariel’s Songs’. I’ve never heard of the author and love how you say that she writes with a ‘thread of tenderness’ and wow, what a magnificent collection of so many poems over decades. I love the samples you share here and a book I will definitely consider adding to my poetry collections! Hope you’ve had a lovely Easter! Xx
Thank you for your kind words, Anika!
I’m so glad to hear I’ve presented you something/someone new. Makes my day.
Thanks for giving this your attention, dear Annika.
(Are you done planting that pear tree? Send photos 😜)
Haha! Not quite yet as hubby has to dig out the poor old and dead lilac tree! Once we are back from a long break in Sweden this will be one of the first jobs. Yes, I’ll definitely share some photos! Thank you so much for your lovely interest. Xx
Selma, I am overwhelmed once again by your kindness, thoughtfulness, and insightful review. I will get this re-blogged right away. Thank you so much! Please take good care of yourself during this troubling time.
Dawn. It’s the least I can do. Really. You are this kind to me too.
I’m taking care of myself. Thanks for reminding me. Bless you.
That’s a beautiful review. The excerpts are wonderful. I am so looking forward to reading it.
Hey Thomas. Glad you read the review in its entirety. I’m so sure you’ll love it once you receive the book. Blessings. 🤗
What a lovely review, Selma, and Dawn’s paperback is heading my way. It’s taking a little longer, but I look forward to reading her beautiful poems. Thanks for sharing, and sorry to hear you had a family emergency. Sending hugs. xo
Thanks, Laura.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy the book. Hope it gets there 💨
Thanks for that lovely sentiment and hugs. It’s my childhood playmate—My adorable Lilly who I spent time with last year during NaPoWriMo. I cannot believe I will never hug her again. She was family to me. I feel overwhelmed still.
Thanks for reading and commenting. Bless you. Hope you’re well. 🤗
Thank you so much, Lauren, for your kind words!
My pleasure, Dawn!
Lovely review, Selma! Congratulations on this intriguing collection, Dawn! ❤️🌹🩷
Thanks, dear Cheryl. It’s a great collection.
Hi Selma, a wonderful review of Dawn’s book.
Thanks dear Robbie 🤗