Book Review: The Elephant's Child

I've often found poetry to be tough sledding. I'm more of a fiction kind of guy. But every once in a while I enjoy poetry that not only has something to say, but says it well. That's why I enjoy Steve Orlen, one of our finest poets. If you're interested in experiencing his brand of spot on real-life observations, the place to start is his 2006 book, The Elephant's Child: New & Selected Poems 1978-2005. Orlen is one of those writers who's not afraid to look at himself. I mean really look at himself, at his darkest intentions and base motivations. He's a wise observer of humanity and instincts, often filtered through his own experience. Here's a brief passage from his poem The Art of Conversation, in which he explores personal communication.

I wanted to know her better,
My new neighbor, clipping the hedges
Between our yards. One question
Led to another, and then
She said, in a murmur
As though afraid a louder pitch
Would overwhelm the air around us—
"It was summer
And my parents were murdered
Right in front of my eyes. I was
Just a seven year old kid."
She looked away, and I looked with her.

In addition to his newer work in this collection, I strongly recommend the poem Big Friend of the Stones which also appears here. This is beautiful, honest stuff which has something to teach us all.

>>> READ THE OPENING PAGES OF THE ELEPHAN'TS CHILD HERE.