Simple,
magical, real, imaginative, understandable. Also brilliant and seen through the
same eyes which the reader jointly shares. P.J. Reed's anthology, Haiku Nation,
is a book of haiku poems. One of the simplest forms of poetry but hardest styles
to write.
The
work here covers nature, emotions and people. There are many memorable pieces
in this volume's six themes (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter, Wanderings and Waterfalling).
One example is the piece on page 41 in the Winter section, it is overly
powerful and dark. It reads:
drowning with sorrow
my tears would fill an ocean
body why so frail
My
first impressions are that the author, P.J., has been hurt immeasurably deeply
by a love affair gone wrong. Placed in Winter, did it happen in winter, when
the land is desolate and the cold can kill you? Or is the poem about someone or
something else? For example, a severe illness?
There
are poems that balance this out. For example this joyous piece from the Waterfalling theme:
orange sunset paints
over sleeping blue
waters
sun moon lake, nantou
This
brings to mind a wonderful time spent at the Sun Moon Lake (in Taiwan). Simple
but beautiful imagery straight from the heart. Almost a love poem, for a
natural place and time enjoyed.
My
favourite poem is on page 23, in the Summer part. Being alone and almost in a
dark mood is banished by a gift from the moon. Is this unconditional love and a
love poem?:
I am loneliness
the kind moon watches
and sends me a shadow friend
The
water colour art too adds to the character of the book. Many poetry collections
are visually boring, being a mere 'book of words'; Haiku Nation is way more
than just words.
Highly
recommended for haiku poetry lovers and for readers in general. A very
enjoyable and warm book. Even the dark pieces of work trigger strong emotions.
A follow up volume would be most welcome. Spread the word, P.J. Reed is the haiku poet to read. A contemporary
of Vannessa Daou.
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