What do you think?
Rate this book
shadow.self.
Internationally celebrated voice actor and author, Joe Arden, opens his mind and heart in this scintillating outpouring of original poetry. Accompanied by black-line illustrations, Arden’s work bleeds from the page in the same emotionally-charged fashion as his lyrical performances of the countless love stories he’s told throughout his career.
Herein lies a raw exploration of duality, darkness, and desire. A collection of sonnets, haikus, and free verse that brings to the surface our fractured pieces and celebrates how the light and the dark blend to make us whole. An invitation to embrace the shadow and give it its rightful place as a part of the self.
The power you’ve hidden underneath glows,
Who told you to bury your beautiful?
Every scar tells me what your body knows.
Your presence to me is immutable.
Herein lies a raw exploration of duality, darkness, and desire. A collection of sonnets, haikus, and free verse that brings to the surface our fractured pieces and celebrates how the light and the dark blend to make us whole. An invitation to embrace the shadow and give it its rightful place as a part of the self.
The power you’ve hidden underneath glows,
Who told you to bury your beautiful?
Every scar tells me what your body knows.
Your presence to me is immutable.
95 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
6 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Joe Arden
751 books1,261 followersWhile many know him as Joe Arden, the narrator, his talents extend far beyond the microphone. He’s an accomplished author, poet, stage performer, and musician. His first solo published novel, The Chameleon Effect, made waves and was shortlisted by Audible’s editorial staff for the Best Audiobooks of 2022! The book won an Earphones Award and is now among the "Top 100 Romance Audios of All Time."
In 2024, he released Shadow.Self., a poetic collection blending over 20 sonnets and 40 haikus with stunning commissioned artwork. Shadow Self’s raw exploration of duality, darkness, and desire made it a bestseller in multpile poetry categories.
That same year, Joe debuted his original stage show, My Soul To Take, a creative fusion of literature, personal musings, and theatrical performance that sold out shows along the Eastern seaboard. A second run of shows is slated for Halloween weekend in New Orleans 2025. Tickets are available at Le Petit Theatre.
Page or stage or studio, his passion for storytelling is clear.
In 2024, he released Shadow.Self., a poetic collection blending over 20 sonnets and 40 haikus with stunning commissioned artwork. Shadow Self’s raw exploration of duality, darkness, and desire made it a bestseller in multpile poetry categories.
That same year, Joe debuted his original stage show, My Soul To Take, a creative fusion of literature, personal musings, and theatrical performance that sold out shows along the Eastern seaboard. A second run of shows is slated for Halloween weekend in New Orleans 2025. Tickets are available at Le Petit Theatre.
Page or stage or studio, his passion for storytelling is clear.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 5, 2024
To Joe,
friend, forged in fire,
nearly stolen in the flames
verity, always
With Love,
Ariel N. Anderson
friend, forged in fire,
nearly stolen in the flames
verity, always
With Love,
Ariel N. Anderson
November 5, 2024
Joe Arden has a beautiful gift when it comes to words, written and spoken.
October 23, 2024
I received this as an ALC from Blue Nose Audio. All opinions and thoughts are my own. 🖤
my shadow fell in step,
in sync,
in surprise.
with tone, tenacity,
t e n d e r n e s s.
a heart tangled in grey;
torn yet triumphant.
retreat.
stop.
reflect.
breathe.
revive.
heal.
rebuild.
dream.
This collection of work is a portrait of the shadow that exists within us all…whether we go in search of it or not. The idea of feeling seen within the depths of personal reflection by oneself is sometimes too profound to understand. Joe leans into his ability to express, in both the written and spoken form through shadow.self, what any one person can discover tangled in their own minds OR within shades of their own morality at any given time.
I appreciated the haikus and the whimsy of pieces like “Ode to a Raindrop” (one of my personal favorites) and “Do You See That Bug”. Even more so, the sweetness of “Honeysuckle” (this felt like a sensory knockout) and “Feathery Kisses” are love notes to the soul. Perhaps most potent, and visceral is the portrait Joe paints of a shadowed figure in shades streaked with grey. Tracks titled “The Lost Sonnet”, “Key to My Jail Cell” and “If There’s Anything” have a finality that is bone chilling.
And if sonnets could be songs they would be titled “Of Time” and “House Fortified”.
I’m in awe of Joe’s ability to explore the corners of his mind and express his workings into this creation with a precision that blurs the line of fiction and reality. What parts of us do we allow ourselves to see?
That’s between my shadow and me.
my shadow fell in step,
in sync,
in surprise.
with tone, tenacity,
t e n d e r n e s s.
a heart tangled in grey;
torn yet triumphant.
retreat.
stop.
reflect.
breathe.
revive.
heal.
rebuild.
dream.
This collection of work is a portrait of the shadow that exists within us all…whether we go in search of it or not. The idea of feeling seen within the depths of personal reflection by oneself is sometimes too profound to understand. Joe leans into his ability to express, in both the written and spoken form through shadow.self, what any one person can discover tangled in their own minds OR within shades of their own morality at any given time.
I appreciated the haikus and the whimsy of pieces like “Ode to a Raindrop” (one of my personal favorites) and “Do You See That Bug”. Even more so, the sweetness of “Honeysuckle” (this felt like a sensory knockout) and “Feathery Kisses” are love notes to the soul. Perhaps most potent, and visceral is the portrait Joe paints of a shadowed figure in shades streaked with grey. Tracks titled “The Lost Sonnet”, “Key to My Jail Cell” and “If There’s Anything” have a finality that is bone chilling.
And if sonnets could be songs they would be titled “Of Time” and “House Fortified”.
I’m in awe of Joe’s ability to explore the corners of his mind and express his workings into this creation with a precision that blurs the line of fiction and reality. What parts of us do we allow ourselves to see?
That’s between my shadow and me.
October 26, 2024
Joe never ceases to amaze me with his artistry. This compilation of his written words transformed through his voice takes you on a journey through the human experience. For me, Shadow Self questions the parts of us that tend to hide in the shadows and why be scared of those parts? Embracing our shadows can lead to self-awareness and to our authentic selves. In order to experience life to the fullest, one could learn to embrace those darker parts because those parts put together with the unhidden parts; the version of ourselves we show to the world, are what makes us whole. Shadow Self reflects on this and this is absolutely some of the most beautiful words I have read. Joe’s words moved me in the most profound way and I appreciate his ability to bring the listener/reader in and really immerse us into the imagery of this piece of art. What an incredible book. If you love thinking deep, are curious about the shadows that reside within, and have a love of words and poetry, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
One of many of my favorite lines is, “ Resistant strength of a thing unwanted. Dig deeply those roots, remain undaunted.”
One of many of my favorite lines is, “ Resistant strength of a thing unwanted. Dig deeply those roots, remain undaunted.”
October 23, 2024
One of the most terrifying things you can do as a human being is show your heart to the world.
And I mean *really* show it.
Allowing yourself the vulnerability to say, “This is who I am to my core: the beautiful, the ugly, the scared. All of it.”
You open the door for others to judge, mock, and misunderstand you.
But you also make space for love. And empathy. And solidarity.
Joe Arden’s shadow.self is a shining example of the beauty of vulnerability in one of the most interconnective forms of shared emotions: art.
In his own words, on his own terms, and with his own voice, Arden allows readers into his mind and his soul in this collection of poetry.
The product is a glimpse into what lies within the soul: darkness and light. Passion and silence. Love.
What took this audiobook to the next level was the remarkable sound design, production, and accompanying visuals (kudos to engineer, Ronn Lipkin, and the design team). The sprinkling of delicate instrumentals and striking illustrations created an experience far beyond any audiobook I’ve listened to. It aims to enact every sense and succeeds.
Personally, so much of what was said in these poems struck a chord I wasn’t anticipating. They healed hidden wounds, inspired my own creation, evoked empathy on a deep level.
It accomplishes what all art strives to: it forces you to think and feel and reflect. It demands truth.
And mostly importantly, it reminds us that through art and human connection,
we are un-alone.
And I mean *really* show it.
Allowing yourself the vulnerability to say, “This is who I am to my core: the beautiful, the ugly, the scared. All of it.”
You open the door for others to judge, mock, and misunderstand you.
But you also make space for love. And empathy. And solidarity.
Joe Arden’s shadow.self is a shining example of the beauty of vulnerability in one of the most interconnective forms of shared emotions: art.
In his own words, on his own terms, and with his own voice, Arden allows readers into his mind and his soul in this collection of poetry.
The product is a glimpse into what lies within the soul: darkness and light. Passion and silence. Love.
What took this audiobook to the next level was the remarkable sound design, production, and accompanying visuals (kudos to engineer, Ronn Lipkin, and the design team). The sprinkling of delicate instrumentals and striking illustrations created an experience far beyond any audiobook I’ve listened to. It aims to enact every sense and succeeds.
Personally, so much of what was said in these poems struck a chord I wasn’t anticipating. They healed hidden wounds, inspired my own creation, evoked empathy on a deep level.
It accomplishes what all art strives to: it forces you to think and feel and reflect. It demands truth.
And mostly importantly, it reminds us that through art and human connection,
we are un-alone.
Read
November 1, 2024*I listened to the audiobook*
I had the honor of being handpicked to receive this alc. Shadow. Self. Written and performed by Joe Arden. I've never been one to read poems or really understand most of them. But, I was moved by Joe's collection. Joe's talents never cease to amaze me. Man of many talents. I loved your words. Keep them coming.
I had the honor of being handpicked to receive this alc. Shadow. Self. Written and performed by Joe Arden. I've never been one to read poems or really understand most of them. But, I was moved by Joe's collection. Joe's talents never cease to amaze me. Man of many talents. I loved your words. Keep them coming.
October 26, 2024
Joe Arden's poetry certainly has a way of resonating with readers, provoking deep reflection and stirring emotions. His ability to weave intricate themes and vivid imagery allows his work to linger in the mind long after reading. His words resonate deeply, inviting readers to embark on a journey within themselves.
Arden's writing has inspired reflection into oneself and the desire to share space with your shadow. The idea of sharing space with one’s shadow speaks to embracing all aspects of ourselves—both light and dark. It encourages a deeper self-awareness and acceptance. His poetry encourages us to embrace these aspects, promoting a sense of wholeness that is both comforting and liberating. This invitation to share space with our shadows fosters a profound sense of connection, not only with ourselves but with the world around us.
Overall, Arden’s work is a compelling reminder of the importance of self-reflection. His poetry serves as both a mirror and a guide, encouraging readers to delve deeper into their own lives while finding solace in the shared human experience.
The dedication and reflection that went into this production is astounding. Making it truly an immersive experience. It was an honor to be selected for this ALC.
Arden's writing has inspired reflection into oneself and the desire to share space with your shadow. The idea of sharing space with one’s shadow speaks to embracing all aspects of ourselves—both light and dark. It encourages a deeper self-awareness and acceptance. His poetry encourages us to embrace these aspects, promoting a sense of wholeness that is both comforting and liberating. This invitation to share space with our shadows fosters a profound sense of connection, not only with ourselves but with the world around us.
Overall, Arden’s work is a compelling reminder of the importance of self-reflection. His poetry serves as both a mirror and a guide, encouraging readers to delve deeper into their own lives while finding solace in the shared human experience.
The dedication and reflection that went into this production is astounding. Making it truly an immersive experience. It was an honor to be selected for this ALC.
October 28, 2024
Joe Arden takes a bold step beyond the romance genre with his work "Shadow. Self." This collection, filled with sonatas and haikus, is a stunning contribution to modern American literature that seems destined for future literary studies.
Through "Shadow. Self." Arden explores the shadow within us all—the part of ourselves we might avoid but inevitably must confront. His writing delves into the idea of feeling genuinely seen in our reflections, a profound and elusive concept.
Arden's introspection in this work is remarkable. He captures the human desire to be understood through the metaphor of a shadow. His words—and his own powerful narration—invite us into this deeply personal journey, leaving us in awe of his bravery and vulnerability.
Thank you, Joe, for sharing this compelling work with the world.
Through "Shadow. Self." Arden explores the shadow within us all—the part of ourselves we might avoid but inevitably must confront. His writing delves into the idea of feeling genuinely seen in our reflections, a profound and elusive concept.
Arden's introspection in this work is remarkable. He captures the human desire to be understood through the metaphor of a shadow. His words—and his own powerful narration—invite us into this deeply personal journey, leaving us in awe of his bravery and vulnerability.
Thank you, Joe, for sharing this compelling work with the world.
November 1, 2024
“For the lion, too, starts as a kitten.”
Just finished listening to the audio, performed and written by joe arden. I wasn’t ready. I’ve had the privilege of hearing snippets in the audio attic, but nothing prepared me for hearing it all together. That intro….I lost my mom eleven years ago and that intro got me in my feels. The emotion behind every word was felt. From the hurt, the anger, the love, the loneliness, the ascension from the ashes, it’s all there, in your face, demanding your attention. Well done. Thank you, Blue Nose Audio, for this ALC.
Just finished listening to the audio, performed and written by joe arden. I wasn’t ready. I’ve had the privilege of hearing snippets in the audio attic, but nothing prepared me for hearing it all together. That intro….I lost my mom eleven years ago and that intro got me in my feels. The emotion behind every word was felt. From the hurt, the anger, the love, the loneliness, the ascension from the ashes, it’s all there, in your face, demanding your attention. Well done. Thank you, Blue Nose Audio, for this ALC.
November 5, 2024
This one took a minute because how do you review someone's emotions? How do you review someone's bared soul?
shadow. self. was raw, hauntingly beautiful, hopeful...
The emotions are tangible from start to finish, not just in the actual poetry but in the dedication, the epigraphs, the introduction, you can feel the sentiment. The weight of the words.
I think Joe described it best in the introduction when he says that art should make you feel unalone. In shadow. self. I felt that hand reaching out so many times, reminding me in grief, in joy, in fear, in ecstasy I'm not alone. None of us are.
If you're a human who has ever felt anything, this is me, recommending you shadow. self.
shadow. self. was raw, hauntingly beautiful, hopeful...
The emotions are tangible from start to finish, not just in the actual poetry but in the dedication, the epigraphs, the introduction, you can feel the sentiment. The weight of the words.
I think Joe described it best in the introduction when he says that art should make you feel unalone. In shadow. self. I felt that hand reaching out so many times, reminding me in grief, in joy, in fear, in ecstasy I'm not alone. None of us are.
If you're a human who has ever felt anything, this is me, recommending you shadow. self.
May 30, 2025
Beautifully Written
Poetry that’s relatable and resonates! This is a fast read collection of poems. I highly recommend the audiobook version. So beautifully written and performed.
Poetry that’s relatable and resonates! This is a fast read collection of poems. I highly recommend the audiobook version. So beautifully written and performed.
August 27, 2025
shadow. self. by poet joe arden
Words alone cannot capture the profound impact this book has had on me. I've always struggled with poetry, reading it, understanding it, it often left me feeling somewhat lost.
And then came shadow. self.
This collection of raw, honest, painful, chilling, and thought-provoking poems has evoked a whirlwind of emotions within me. I've spent countless hours listening to books narrated by Joe Arden, but none compare to the beauty of the words he has penned in this masterpiece.
While best enjoyed in audio form narrated by the author, the extra content of original artwork and personal writings makes this written form a beautiful visual companion to the audiobook.
Joe, this book is absolutely stunning. Bravo.
Words alone cannot capture the profound impact this book has had on me. I've always struggled with poetry, reading it, understanding it, it often left me feeling somewhat lost.
And then came shadow. self.
This collection of raw, honest, painful, chilling, and thought-provoking poems has evoked a whirlwind of emotions within me. I've spent countless hours listening to books narrated by Joe Arden, but none compare to the beauty of the words he has penned in this masterpiece.
While best enjoyed in audio form narrated by the author, the extra content of original artwork and personal writings makes this written form a beautiful visual companion to the audiobook.
Joe, this book is absolutely stunning. Bravo.
November 8, 2024
It’s actually been a long time since I’ve really read or listened to any poetry. But, in listening to this audiobook, I was reminded of why I fell in love with poetry in the first place. And thanks to Joe Arden, I have been unequivocally reminded of the pure and overwhelming power of that poetry in the form of the spoken word—the way it can cut right to the core of a person, laying bare our vulnerabilities, our dreams and desires, our innermost thoughts, and our very heart. Utilizing his own views and introspection, Joe has managed to include something in this audiobook that everyone can relate to, his words ranging from the dark and macabre to the romantic and sublimely hopeful. He expertly captures and explores the duality present in all of our personalities and our inherent need as human beings to connect and share our life experience. In Joe’s own words, “Creation belongs to us all.” Art is universal, as is the human condition. And nowhere is that more evident than in Joe Arden’s purposeful and heartfelt words.
This title is available in the Blue Nose Audio app as well as Audible and other retail sites where audiobooks are sold. Do yourself a favor, and pick it up now!
This title is available in the Blue Nose Audio app as well as Audible and other retail sites where audiobooks are sold. Do yourself a favor, and pick it up now!
November 1, 2024
Shadow. Self. is a mesmerising collection that delves into the intricacies of duality, darkness, and desire with an evocative blend of sonnets, haikus, and free verse. Joe Arden, renowned for his emotive voice acting, transitions seamlessly into the realm of poetry, offering readers an introspective journey through the fragmented yet harmonized facets of the human experience. The poems invite readers to confront and embrace their shadows, acknowledging them as integral components of the self. Joe's ability to convey emotion through his words is as captivating on the page as it is in his audio performances, creating a rich tapestry of language that resonates deeply. Each piece in the collection is a testament to the beauty found in embracing both the light and the dark, encouraging a holistic acceptance of one's own complexities. This book is a compelling invitation to explore the profound depths of the human psyche, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
November 8, 2024
𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗 is not just a talented narrator, he's a fantastic author, as well. I am usually not big on listening to/reading books of this nature, but when I learned it was both written by and narrated by 𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗, I knew I had to dive into it.
And, oh how 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 this was. Filled with haikus & sonnets, 𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗'𝚜 creativity flowed. Each one different, each one the same. Each one powerful. Each one absolutely thought provoking. I loved every minute of it.
We all have a shadow within. We all have a choice: accept it & confront it, or turn around and run from it. 𝙹𝚘𝚎 masterfully voices the words he wrote to express this to us. He doesn't just put voice to the words, he 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 the words, filling them with tones & emotions that make the reader absolutely 𝓕𝓔𝓔𝓛 every word.
This is a short read/listen, but it will make you think, it will make you reach into the deepest parts of your soul, it will become something you will want to turn to, again and again, to find your creativity, your hope, your 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘.𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇. Bravo, 𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗. Bravo! 👏🏼
And, oh how 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 this was. Filled with haikus & sonnets, 𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗'𝚜 creativity flowed. Each one different, each one the same. Each one powerful. Each one absolutely thought provoking. I loved every minute of it.
We all have a shadow within. We all have a choice: accept it & confront it, or turn around and run from it. 𝙹𝚘𝚎 masterfully voices the words he wrote to express this to us. He doesn't just put voice to the words, he 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 the words, filling them with tones & emotions that make the reader absolutely 𝓕𝓔𝓔𝓛 every word.
This is a short read/listen, but it will make you think, it will make you reach into the deepest parts of your soul, it will become something you will want to turn to, again and again, to find your creativity, your hope, your 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘.𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇. Bravo, 𝙹𝚘𝚎 𝙰𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗. Bravo! 👏🏼
November 26, 2024
UN-ALONE
I officially finished shadow.self. this morning. I cannot stop crying. The introduction is gonna live rent free in my head for all eternity. I have never come across a book that has spoken to my soul like this book has. This phenomenal book hit me so hard that I had to do a review just for the introduction that’s how powerful this beautiful book is to me. This extraordinary book has irritably change my very marrow. This beautiful book will live rent free in my head for all eternity. This beautiful book is gonna be my go to when I need to center myself on my goals. Thank you so so much Joe for writing this beautiful book that has impact in me and heal something in me that I never knew needed healing. If you need a book a portrait that will shape you into something beautiful, you need to get this book today because you will absolutely not be disappointed.
I officially finished shadow.self. this morning. I cannot stop crying. The introduction is gonna live rent free in my head for all eternity. I have never come across a book that has spoken to my soul like this book has. This phenomenal book hit me so hard that I had to do a review just for the introduction that’s how powerful this beautiful book is to me. This extraordinary book has irritably change my very marrow. This beautiful book will live rent free in my head for all eternity. This beautiful book is gonna be my go to when I need to center myself on my goals. Thank you so so much Joe for writing this beautiful book that has impact in me and heal something in me that I never knew needed healing. If you need a book a portrait that will shape you into something beautiful, you need to get this book today because you will absolutely not be disappointed.
November 20, 2025
Shadow.self is an intense, emotionally resonant story that blends introspection, tension, and slow-burn discovery in a way that kept me consistently engaged. Joe Arden brings a unique narrative voice to the page—raw, intimate, and deeply character-driven. The atmosphere is moody and immersive, pulling you into the inner world of the characters as they confront the parts of themselves they’d rather avoid.
What I enjoyed most was the balance between vulnerability and grit. The emotional layers unfold gradually, giving just enough at a time to keep the stakes high without revealing too much too soon. The writing feels purposeful and rhythmic, and the character dynamics are nuanced in a way that makes even quiet moments feel meaningful.
If you enjoy short poems/stories that explore identity, hidden truths, and the darker edges of the human experience—without sacrificing heart—this book is well worth the read, without being too long.
What I enjoyed most was the balance between vulnerability and grit. The emotional layers unfold gradually, giving just enough at a time to keep the stakes high without revealing too much too soon. The writing feels purposeful and rhythmic, and the character dynamics are nuanced in a way that makes even quiet moments feel meaningful.
If you enjoy short poems/stories that explore identity, hidden truths, and the darker edges of the human experience—without sacrificing heart—this book is well worth the read, without being too long.
October 25, 2024
The Words, The Performance, Prepare to Be Amazed!
shadow.self
By: Joe Arden
Narrated by: Joe Arden
Wow, Joe Arden pens an amazing collection of poetry, twenty-three sonnets masterfully written, with each one just as moving as the other. Powerful and meaningful thoughts coming from the heart and the mind, delivered beautifully and poetically from the pages to your ears. The personal messages were equally moving, and I loved he included quotes and references to the plays and William Butler Yates and thoughts on how he related to them. And keeping true to himself and his words, Joe Arden’s performance, one like no other, full of raw emotions, comes to you straight from the heart. Thank you for your profound and thought-provoking words and exceptional performance.
shadow.self
By: Joe Arden
Narrated by: Joe Arden
Wow, Joe Arden pens an amazing collection of poetry, twenty-three sonnets masterfully written, with each one just as moving as the other. Powerful and meaningful thoughts coming from the heart and the mind, delivered beautifully and poetically from the pages to your ears. The personal messages were equally moving, and I loved he included quotes and references to the plays and William Butler Yates and thoughts on how he related to them. And keeping true to himself and his words, Joe Arden’s performance, one like no other, full of raw emotions, comes to you straight from the heart. Thank you for your profound and thought-provoking words and exceptional performance.
November 1, 2024
I AM SPEECHLESS
I finished listening to this yesterday early through the Blue Nose Audio App 💙
I felt so many emotions that I was moved and flawed and amazed and speechless.
I have never been into poetry, but this year, i have discovered pieces more and more, and these original collections of poetry Joe has written and performed are POWERFULL. I had to pause each one because just wow.
I think I might need to highlight every piece because they just made me feel all the feelings.
Joe writing and perspective on things is something that has really resonated with me over the years of following his work and it something I always go back to when I need to feel empowered again or I need motivation or need to belive in myself.
I have no more words, just WOW 👏👏
I finished listening to this yesterday early through the Blue Nose Audio App 💙
I felt so many emotions that I was moved and flawed and amazed and speechless.
I have never been into poetry, but this year, i have discovered pieces more and more, and these original collections of poetry Joe has written and performed are POWERFULL. I had to pause each one because just wow.
I think I might need to highlight every piece because they just made me feel all the feelings.
Joe writing and perspective on things is something that has really resonated with me over the years of following his work and it something I always go back to when I need to feel empowered again or I need motivation or need to belive in myself.
I have no more words, just WOW 👏👏
November 16, 2024
👀 and 🎧
I have read and listened to this amazing work of art several times. It was so emotional for me. Joe Arden is well known for his amazing vocal work, but he is so multitalented.
This book of poetry has had a ripple effect on my heart. I find magic every time I open the pages. It starts with the cover and the details….. the shadowing, the placement of the words and the cracked glass. When you open the pages and start to read the heartfelt words, you also get original artwork that adds a little bit of extra to the work. Pay attention to the shadow man, I’m curious if others see what I saw.
To conclude, everyone needs this book. It will enrich your life. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have read and listened to this amazing work of art several times. It was so emotional for me. Joe Arden is well known for his amazing vocal work, but he is so multitalented.
This book of poetry has had a ripple effect on my heart. I find magic every time I open the pages. It starts with the cover and the details….. the shadowing, the placement of the words and the cracked glass. When you open the pages and start to read the heartfelt words, you also get original artwork that adds a little bit of extra to the work. Pay attention to the shadow man, I’m curious if others see what I saw.
To conclude, everyone needs this book. It will enrich your life. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 20, 2025
This book has helped me get through some very tough times over the past few months. It’s a collection of poems written by the ever talented author and narrated by Joe Arden. To say that this hasn’t changed how I think and feel is an understatement. This book pulls so many feelings from you and has you feeling each and every one of those emotions.
This book inspired me to get his words permanently tattooed to my skin to remind me everyday that I matter…if you need something to read that will bring out all the feels and that will affect your thinking then read this…
The audio is very beautifully done as always…
This book inspired me to get his words permanently tattooed to my skin to remind me everyday that I matter…if you need something to read that will bring out all the feels and that will affect your thinking then read this…
The audio is very beautifully done as always…
November 4, 2024
Wow. We need more of this art in the world.
Here are some of the many lines that stuck out to me, but make no mistake, I had chills the ENTIRE listening session 🖤 in Joe Arden we trust 🤝🏼
“Take all of me in your infinite love
I would burn the world down for you, my dove”
“Carry me with you wherever you go
Neither space or time can steal what we know”
“Some trials feel like they’re too much to bear
Alone, they may be, but not when you’re there”
“Found solace in here to cope with the trauma
This darkness, no period, a comma”
Here are some of the many lines that stuck out to me, but make no mistake, I had chills the ENTIRE listening session 🖤 in Joe Arden we trust 🤝🏼
“Take all of me in your infinite love
I would burn the world down for you, my dove”
“Carry me with you wherever you go
Neither space or time can steal what we know”
“Some trials feel like they’re too much to bear
Alone, they may be, but not when you’re there”
“Found solace in here to cope with the trauma
This darkness, no period, a comma”
November 15, 2024
This was an incredible audiobook in my opinion.
The reason I chose to listen to it rather than read it is because I’m not a huge fan of poetry or different kinds of poetry but I appreciate it.
I liked it better listening to it because it felt more powerful and Joe Arden is a narrator who really brings things to life.
I wish it were longer because it ended to quickly. I was definitely immersed into the experience and loved the alliterations and metaphors and the brief pop culture references/easter eggs.
The reason I chose to listen to it rather than read it is because I’m not a huge fan of poetry or different kinds of poetry but I appreciate it.
I liked it better listening to it because it felt more powerful and Joe Arden is a narrator who really brings things to life.
I wish it were longer because it ended to quickly. I was definitely immersed into the experience and loved the alliterations and metaphors and the brief pop culture references/easter eggs.
October 22, 2024
Shadow.Self. by Joe Arden is a collection of his original poetry.
I will start by saying I am not much a poetry fan, but I am a huge Joe Arden fan and when I saw he would be reading his work on audio I couldn't help but listen.
I can't explain this work of art any better than the way it was described in the blurb so I will just reference the quote: "Arden’s work bleeds from the page in the same emotionally-charged fashion as his lyrical performances."
I will start by saying I am not much a poetry fan, but I am a huge Joe Arden fan and when I saw he would be reading his work on audio I couldn't help but listen.
I can't explain this work of art any better than the way it was described in the blurb so I will just reference the quote: "Arden’s work bleeds from the page in the same emotionally-charged fashion as his lyrical performances."
October 21, 2024
The words on the pages are beautifully written with deep emotions personified. The pictures that go along with the sonnets are amazingly designed. The words brought to life but none other than the creator…flawless. If you love poetry and deep emotions, this is a book for you, the listen is even better. So much can be said with just a few words…read them.
October 23, 2024
🎧Alc review .
Honestly stunned .
I have never truly read or listened to anything as raw feeling as this . The poetry was so ripping , the words powerful. Some passages brought tears to my eyes .
“.. What’s inside the you , you keep from the world ?”
Moving piece of work. Beautifully preformed by @therealjoearden .
Emotional, raw, breathtaking.
Honestly stunned .
I have never truly read or listened to anything as raw feeling as this . The poetry was so ripping , the words powerful. Some passages brought tears to my eyes .
“.. What’s inside the you , you keep from the world ?”
Moving piece of work. Beautifully preformed by @therealjoearden .
Emotional, raw, breathtaking.
December 3, 2024
I am not a poetry person at all. My brain does not function the way poetry requires. I bought and listened simply to show support to Joe Arden. It does take a lot to bare one's soul and I feel that is what he did here.
If you are a fan of Joe and poetry this you will most likely enjoy this quite a bit.
If you are a fan of Joe and poetry this you will most likely enjoy this quite a bit.
January 14, 2025
Five Stars!
I absolutely love ANYTHING Joe Arden does. Whether he’s the creator and author, or whether he is narrating a book. For years I’ve loved his work! He puts so much care and passion and emotion into his characters that it makes you feel like you are that character or the co characters in which his character is in a scene with in a book! 5/5 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I absolutely love ANYTHING Joe Arden does. Whether he’s the creator and author, or whether he is narrating a book. For years I’ve loved his work! He puts so much care and passion and emotion into his characters that it makes you feel like you are that character or the co characters in which his character is in a scene with in a book! 5/5 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 15, 2025
Joe Arden- He is the most talented narrator I have heard. And then his sonnets? Yea, they broke me. Joe can take words, and bring them to life by his performance. Seriously there are no words enough to describe how you can make me feel. I feel every pain, heartbreak, joy, etc.
But not only know he can write beautiful poetry….. I truly am obsessed.
But not only know he can write beautiful poetry….. I truly am obsessed.
October 22, 2024
Received an ALC this morning.
I have never listened to Poetry. All I can say is that please do. I will be giving this a re_ listen more than once. Joe Arden is a master at his narration his Poetry. very moving.
Thank you BNA for the opportunity to listen to this raw emotional piece of work.
I have never listened to Poetry. All I can say is that please do. I will be giving this a re_ listen more than once. Joe Arden is a master at his narration his Poetry. very moving.
Thank you BNA for the opportunity to listen to this raw emotional piece of work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews