The Rose Inside

by David Keplinger

David Keplinger is a translator of event and emotion with poems that are lyrical, forceful, deeply feeling, and sometimes mysterious. Not everything in our lives is solvable, or knowable -- so much issues from a mere point, like moonlight in a prison cell, or a minnow being lifted from the bait pail to the hook, or a group of Polish soldiers who 'sleep quietly on one another's shoulders.'

Genres: Poetry

80 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Tom Romig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crisp, sparkling, knowing, and a delight to read. Even more delightful to read aloud. David Keplinger is comfortable in the realm of human mystery. It was a pleasure to have him as my guide. (Thanks, Liz!)

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up instead of down because I'm feeling generous. My two favorite poems are "Blessing for the Liver" and the first poem in "Lineage," which reads

I know what I know is uncommon.
Why do you think I'm so happy?

I make a shadow with my hands.
It makes no sense.

Did you ever see his shadow in the dark?
Did you ever see God's little shadow?

I press my hands together.
It makes no sense.