A Christmas Present

I am grateful to have found this at Edward Byrne's One Poet's Notes. He more than made my day.

Coincidentally, at the end of last year the University of Arkansas Press released a wonderful book of poems by Greg Rappleye, Figured Dark. This excellent collection was published near the close of 2007, perhaps too late to be considered by many for their lists of best poetry books for the year. Although most readers would have encountered the volume in 2008, it does not qualify for this year’s lists either because of its publication date.

Nevertheless, I must state Figured Dark was among my favorite poetry books read during the last twelve months. Rappleye’s poems invite readers to engage in contemplations on various topics, such as the beauty and fragility of nature, the value of life and living while acknowledging aging and mortality, the poet’s appreciation for language and admiration of other arts. Rappleye’s work exhibits an ear for lyricism and an eye for detail; yet, the words flow so smoothly that they often imitate an intimate conversation with a wise and concerned companion frankly confiding his thoughts. Figured Dark is a book of poems to which I have returned repeatedly and enjoyed reading throughout the past year.