vincent-thomas

Author and poet, Phil McClean has produced a book of 80 poems. Contemporary poems that reflect, not the past, our history or lost loves but the present; today’s happenings and experiences, life in the twenty first century. Forever 21 is a reflection of life in general. I found the poetry lyrical. Many of the verses could be sung and some would make very good modern day lyrics. Sir James Montague on page 96 is one such verse or Never to Have Seen the sun page 84 with it’s repetitive chorus. Dark Lady page 138 is another. The chorus resounds, “You’ve got a rare thing- time on your side. You never rush, run or hide.” Some remind us of thing lost. Old Newspaper with its verse: I once was a star- now I’m yesterday’s news-And there is no longer a room with a view-Like it or not, there is nothing I can do. Others are candid snippets of the daily grind. Rush hour traffic is featured in ‘Drive’ on page 54. Stark realizations of the violence of life are revealed in ‘Some of Us’ page 36 where the poet expounds on street violence, guns and drugs, and college shootings. The book is not without its love and romance references, seen in Love Song I and This Key we Forged Together. Phil McClean generates descriptive and intense images with his writing. He stimulates the senses and obliges the reader to do some thinking. For a candid, creative and often musical read, pick up a copy of Forever 21. It is a book you will return to often. Highly Recommended by reviewer: Shirley Roe, Allbooks Review www.allbooksreviewint.com

2022-10-29 03:29