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Constructed of Magic: And Other Poems on the Immortality of the Human Spirit
What Would Life be Like if You Knew You Were an Immortal Spiritual Being?
“It is my viewpoint that each man has his own unique magnificence regardless of race, religion, nation, tribe, station in life, customs and beliefs…,” so writes poet, Louis Alan Swartz.
Constructed of Magic and Other Poems on the Immortality of the Human Spirit is a refreshing collection of poems that explore the beauty of who we are as spiritual beings. Our ability to love, dream, create futures, even die with dignity are all part of who we are and why we are here. These poems don’t pretend to give final answers to any of the big questions about life, but they do help us to look and come to our own understanding. “This book is a testament to the poet’s vision-an understanding and appreciation for the spiritual and aesthetic nature of mankind….There is a peaceful calmness that cascades over me when I read the joy that Louis Swartz communicates in these poems. I invite you to share that experience with me.” Bernard Percy Educator, Speaker, Author.
We invite you to discover the magic in these poems that are infused throughout with a terrific appreciation of humankind. As Swartz concludes in his introduction, “If by reading them, one individual is able to get an inkling of the actual length and breadth of his ability to do good, my purpose in writing them will be achieved.” Louis Alan Swartz has dedicated his life to helping others find their ability as immortal spiritual beings. He has traveled extensively in Africa, India, Europe, and the Middle East. He lives in Los Angeles with Connie, his wife of twenty-eight years.
“It is my viewpoint that each man has his own unique magnificence regardless of race, religion, nation, tribe, station in life, customs and beliefs…,” so writes poet, Louis Alan Swartz.
Constructed of Magic and Other Poems on the Immortality of the Human Spirit is a refreshing collection of poems that explore the beauty of who we are as spiritual beings. Our ability to love, dream, create futures, even die with dignity are all part of who we are and why we are here. These poems don’t pretend to give final answers to any of the big questions about life, but they do help us to look and come to our own understanding. “This book is a testament to the poet’s vision-an understanding and appreciation for the spiritual and aesthetic nature of mankind….There is a peaceful calmness that cascades over me when I read the joy that Louis Swartz communicates in these poems. I invite you to share that experience with me.” Bernard Percy Educator, Speaker, Author.
We invite you to discover the magic in these poems that are infused throughout with a terrific appreciation of humankind. As Swartz concludes in his introduction, “If by reading them, one individual is able to get an inkling of the actual length and breadth of his ability to do good, my purpose in writing them will be achieved.” Louis Alan Swartz has dedicated his life to helping others find their ability as immortal spiritual beings. He has traveled extensively in Africa, India, Europe, and the Middle East. He lives in Los Angeles with Connie, his wife of twenty-eight years.
- GenresPoetry
210 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 31, 2015
This book is a life changer! I lost my mom a year ago and even though I am spiritual, I had a hard time. Reading these poems reminded me that she and I are very much so connected and always will be. It's easy to get caught up in the worries of life. This book helped me take a step back, refresh and see again that the world is beautiful.
January 26, 2016
Constructed of Magic and Other Poems is a collection of 91 poems divided into eleven sections or themes: death, grandmothers, spirits, love and marriage, children, America, sanctity, angels and monsters, aesthetics, immortality, and hope. However, all have the common theme of living life to it fullest. Because they are arranged into these themes, the poems can become a bit repetitive if read in order. Therefore, they are best savored by dipping into random pages, as the mood takes you.
The poems are a mixture of free verse and rhyming verse; I much prefer the free verse. Some of my favorite poems: "Some Things I Want to Show You", "Meeting Grandmother Near the River", "On the Day I Gained Certainty That I was a Spirit", "Making Dinner", "Rocking Horse", "Remembrance", "Oriental Poppies and Irises".
The author provides definitions for some words in the poems; this is an unnecessary distraction. However, the black-and-white line drawings, also by the author and interspersed between the poems, are a nice touch.
This is an uplifting collection of poetry with something sure to appeal to everyone. In his introduction, the author states, "If by reading them, one individual is able to get an inkling of the actual length and breadth of his ability to do good, my purpose in writing them will be achieved." Louis, your purpose has been achieved.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: https://booksdirectonline.blogspot.co...
The poems are a mixture of free verse and rhyming verse; I much prefer the free verse. Some of my favorite poems: "Some Things I Want to Show You", "Meeting Grandmother Near the River", "On the Day I Gained Certainty That I was a Spirit", "Making Dinner", "Rocking Horse", "Remembrance", "Oriental Poppies and Irises".
The author provides definitions for some words in the poems; this is an unnecessary distraction. However, the black-and-white line drawings, also by the author and interspersed between the poems, are a nice touch.
This is an uplifting collection of poetry with something sure to appeal to everyone. In his introduction, the author states, "If by reading them, one individual is able to get an inkling of the actual length and breadth of his ability to do good, my purpose in writing them will be achieved." Louis, your purpose has been achieved.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: https://booksdirectonline.blogspot.co...
February 5, 2016
What a refreshing look at love! Swartz's poetry on the topic is simple yet profound, and it captures the essence of mature love beautifully. These poems are excerpted from his full book Constructed of Magic, which I look forward to reading. Full review on Hall Ways Blog http://kristinehallways.blogspot.com/...
August 18, 2015
This is a nice collection of poems that are grouped into different categories such as death, love, spirits, hope, immortality, angels, etc. The poems are not intimidating or too hard to understand as poems can sometimes be. I did feel a sense of pride in the divine within me while reading these poems and they did make me want to honor my inner spirit and be a better person and not waste the life I have on this earth.
One of my favorite parts about this collection were the beautiful illustrations by Swartz scattered throughout. I wish there had been more!
My only complaint about this book was that certain words had an asterisk next to them and the definition of that word followed after the poem. The asterisk was a distraction while reading the poem and the definitions seemed unnecessary and frankly were an insult to my intelligence.
Overall this was a very enjoyable collection of poems that I can plainly see were a labor of love.
This is and excerpt from my favorite poem, "Spirit":
A spirit can be utterly robust
And in your face.
Belly laughter and drunken
passion, brawling, boisterous
and strong of lung
in one minute
and deer silent, delicately quiet
and alert in the next.
Book Blog site: mollygould.com
One of my favorite parts about this collection were the beautiful illustrations by Swartz scattered throughout. I wish there had been more!
My only complaint about this book was that certain words had an asterisk next to them and the definition of that word followed after the poem. The asterisk was a distraction while reading the poem and the definitions seemed unnecessary and frankly were an insult to my intelligence.
Overall this was a very enjoyable collection of poems that I can plainly see were a labor of love.
This is and excerpt from my favorite poem, "Spirit":
A spirit can be utterly robust
And in your face.
Belly laughter and drunken
passion, brawling, boisterous
and strong of lung
in one minute
and deer silent, delicately quiet
and alert in the next.
Book Blog site: mollygould.com
February 14, 2015
I normally don't seek out books of poetry but my wife would read me excerpts in the car and I really liked what she read. It's the kind of book you read and then leave on a shelf by your desk so you can open it when you need a boost. Very heart warming, beautiful and on point.
March 29, 2023
Love the cover art! Most of the poems did not grab me. There were a few poems where the male author was trying to write from a female perspective, (about mascara running, etc) and they did not work at all for me. Some of the content was repetitive, and overly wordy. I did find a few one line snippets i highlighted, as well as longer sections.
January 19, 2018
Very well written in straight forward language. This is poetry for the people and not for the intellectual analyzers sitting in some dark and dingy university room. I like this book a lot. It speaks to the soul.
September 24, 2015
Star counts are hard, especially in a work of some ninety-three poems presented in groups on various themes. So, as always, do not let my star count override your judgement of content. More on the stars, counting, and my rating challenges later. Let’s get to Swartz’s work.
From the first poem, Death, you will be ambushed by Swartz’s philosophy, which continues in the larger poem Some Things I Want to Show you. The belief system is exposed poem by poem, for example in Where’s the Fire Bud? we find this: “Then suddenly and quietly /The fire came and sat /Down next to me, /So bright and strong /Even the cop could see.”
Mortality is everywhere in Swartz, and lack of fear of it. For an example of this, turn to Visit from a Fatal Friend.
There are metaphysical puzzles, as in Walking from the Garden to the Forest. It is impossible to give an insight into this complex poem with a simple quote.
Some poems are simple exposures of pure pleasure, as Boston Winter in Love, which is very nice.
Conversely there are tough situations, as in Making the Bed, in which we find this: “I would give up /Everything I have /For five genuine minutes /With my daughter” and later this: “I’d burn this bed /And all four thousand /Six hundred and forty six /Square feet of this house /Just to spend five minutes /Really talking to my husband.”
This is followed by the even more frightening poem, Making the Bed Thirty Years Later, which ends thus: “Be polite at my funeral. /Leave the skeletons at home in the closet. /And enjoy the expensive catered food at the reception.”
For a surprise point of view, turn to the masterpiece Making Dinner, which ends with “How could Mommy be other than forever?”
For a final comment on mortality (or the lack of it) turn to Oriental Poppies and Irises.
Star counts are hard. These poems are not all of the same appeal to me, and your mileage may vary. However, the favourites noted above moved me, and in this large collection there will surely be favourites of yours too. My personal guidelines, when doing any review, are as follows: five stars means, roughly equal to best in genre. Rarely given. Four stars means, extremely good. Three stars means, definitely recommendable. I am a tough reviewer. This is a wide-ranging collection. For the reader going through the volume as I did, I think you will find enough to agree that five stars are warranted. Recommended, for sure.
From the first poem, Death, you will be ambushed by Swartz’s philosophy, which continues in the larger poem Some Things I Want to Show you. The belief system is exposed poem by poem, for example in Where’s the Fire Bud? we find this: “Then suddenly and quietly /The fire came and sat /Down next to me, /So bright and strong /Even the cop could see.”
Mortality is everywhere in Swartz, and lack of fear of it. For an example of this, turn to Visit from a Fatal Friend.
There are metaphysical puzzles, as in Walking from the Garden to the Forest. It is impossible to give an insight into this complex poem with a simple quote.
Some poems are simple exposures of pure pleasure, as Boston Winter in Love, which is very nice.
Conversely there are tough situations, as in Making the Bed, in which we find this: “I would give up /Everything I have /For five genuine minutes /With my daughter” and later this: “I’d burn this bed /And all four thousand /Six hundred and forty six /Square feet of this house /Just to spend five minutes /Really talking to my husband.”
This is followed by the even more frightening poem, Making the Bed Thirty Years Later, which ends thus: “Be polite at my funeral. /Leave the skeletons at home in the closet. /And enjoy the expensive catered food at the reception.”
For a surprise point of view, turn to the masterpiece Making Dinner, which ends with “How could Mommy be other than forever?”
For a final comment on mortality (or the lack of it) turn to Oriental Poppies and Irises.
Star counts are hard. These poems are not all of the same appeal to me, and your mileage may vary. However, the favourites noted above moved me, and in this large collection there will surely be favourites of yours too. My personal guidelines, when doing any review, are as follows: five stars means, roughly equal to best in genre. Rarely given. Four stars means, extremely good. Three stars means, definitely recommendable. I am a tough reviewer. This is a wide-ranging collection. For the reader going through the volume as I did, I think you will find enough to agree that five stars are warranted. Recommended, for sure.
August 17, 2015
Somewhere between the ideal of what life should be and the stark reality of what life – as we know it today – is, there’s a point in which a spiritual vision makes way to a different view of the world. That view, which is not naïve, for it recognizes the difficulties, but that tries its best to remain optimistic, is the thought that emerges from these poems. Poems that, relatively simple, but vast in the ideas they give voice to, form a unity within themselves, but merge to reflect a global perspective.
This is one of the most interesting aspects of this book: we can read all the poems sequentially, or each different part of the book, or even only one poem. We will never feel that part of the idea is missing. Each poem is a complete process of thought, and that allows us to revisit our favorite parts of the book, regardless of having enjoyed all the poems or only a few.
Something else that stands out is the diversity of themes and approaches. Death, aesthetic, immortality… These poems speak of various themes, and they do it with a personal view, but global ideas. Some of them seem to tell a story. Others talk of simple thoughts and ideas. And, thus, the diversity of subjects expands to the structure itself. Long poems, short poems, with or without rhyme. This variety – of themes, of structure, of words – makes reading this book more interesting.
About the structure, and the organization of the book, there is what I would call a side effect. By organizing the poems by theme, it happens, sometimes, that the same idea or similar ideas are repeated in the space of a couple of pages, and this repetition makes the impact of the thought fade a little. Also, rhyme and rhythm seem to impose some limits to the flow of the ideas, with the choice of words sounding, sometimes, a bit too farfetched.
What happens, then, is that some poems – generally the shortest ones – seem to have a bigger impact. But, considering the global content of this book, the idea that lingers is that of a solid selection of poems, approaching complex subjects in a simple and personal view. This – vastness in contrast with simplicity – is what makes them memorable. And more than enough for this Constructed of Magic to be a good read.
**I won this book in one of the Goodreads First Reads giveaways
This is one of the most interesting aspects of this book: we can read all the poems sequentially, or each different part of the book, or even only one poem. We will never feel that part of the idea is missing. Each poem is a complete process of thought, and that allows us to revisit our favorite parts of the book, regardless of having enjoyed all the poems or only a few.
Something else that stands out is the diversity of themes and approaches. Death, aesthetic, immortality… These poems speak of various themes, and they do it with a personal view, but global ideas. Some of them seem to tell a story. Others talk of simple thoughts and ideas. And, thus, the diversity of subjects expands to the structure itself. Long poems, short poems, with or without rhyme. This variety – of themes, of structure, of words – makes reading this book more interesting.
About the structure, and the organization of the book, there is what I would call a side effect. By organizing the poems by theme, it happens, sometimes, that the same idea or similar ideas are repeated in the space of a couple of pages, and this repetition makes the impact of the thought fade a little. Also, rhyme and rhythm seem to impose some limits to the flow of the ideas, with the choice of words sounding, sometimes, a bit too farfetched.
What happens, then, is that some poems – generally the shortest ones – seem to have a bigger impact. But, considering the global content of this book, the idea that lingers is that of a solid selection of poems, approaching complex subjects in a simple and personal view. This – vastness in contrast with simplicity – is what makes them memorable. And more than enough for this Constructed of Magic to be a good read.
**I won this book in one of the Goodreads First Reads giveaways
September 27, 2015
***This book was reviewed for Reader's Favourite.***
I really rather enjoyed Swartz' collection of poems in the book Constructed of Magic, despite many of the poems involving rhyming. Rhyming poems are usually a big turn-off for me. Many of the poems in this book dealt with a difficult topic for most people- death. Yet, Swartz' take on things is more light-hearted. There are sketches throughout the book that accentuate nicely. If the author is the artist, brava! Beautiful!
For this author, death is not to be feared, but embraced. It is not an end to things, but the beginning of a new stage, merely the continuation of a journey. Life is to be enjoyed, not merely endured. I must admit, despite the encouraging and playful nature of the poetry, I still found myself sad at times.
Two of my favourite poems were 'The Clock in the Square', and 'Visit from a Fatal Friend'.
'The Clock in the Square' reminds us that every life matters. Things may go on after we shed our mortal shell, but everyone leaves an imprint, a legacy, behind. 'Visit from a Fatal Friend' shows us Death need not be feared, but can be seen as a friend, and guide to the next stage in life. I found this poem rather synchronistic given that one of my most recent reads was The Heartbeat Thief by AJ Krafton.
Swartz' Constructed of Magic collection is a must-read for any lover of poetry. It sings to the heart, and makes you reconsider the seriousness with which we treat some topics.
[A editing would be good. There were several grammatical/ spelling errors. The formatting was also funky but that may have come about during conversion.
I would also suggest removing the asterisks with definitions. It takes from your poetry, and some readers may believe it an insult to their intelligence. If one is reading poetry of this calibre, the words are most likely known. If they aren't, then the reader is likely to look them up.]
I really rather enjoyed Swartz' collection of poems in the book Constructed of Magic, despite many of the poems involving rhyming. Rhyming poems are usually a big turn-off for me. Many of the poems in this book dealt with a difficult topic for most people- death. Yet, Swartz' take on things is more light-hearted. There are sketches throughout the book that accentuate nicely. If the author is the artist, brava! Beautiful!
For this author, death is not to be feared, but embraced. It is not an end to things, but the beginning of a new stage, merely the continuation of a journey. Life is to be enjoyed, not merely endured. I must admit, despite the encouraging and playful nature of the poetry, I still found myself sad at times.
Two of my favourite poems were 'The Clock in the Square', and 'Visit from a Fatal Friend'.
'The Clock in the Square' reminds us that every life matters. Things may go on after we shed our mortal shell, but everyone leaves an imprint, a legacy, behind. 'Visit from a Fatal Friend' shows us Death need not be feared, but can be seen as a friend, and guide to the next stage in life. I found this poem rather synchronistic given that one of my most recent reads was The Heartbeat Thief by AJ Krafton.
Swartz' Constructed of Magic collection is a must-read for any lover of poetry. It sings to the heart, and makes you reconsider the seriousness with which we treat some topics.
[A editing would be good. There were several grammatical/ spelling errors. The formatting was also funky but that may have come about during conversion.
I would also suggest removing the asterisks with definitions. It takes from your poetry, and some readers may believe it an insult to their intelligence. If one is reading poetry of this calibre, the words are most likely known. If they aren't, then the reader is likely to look them up.]
April 21, 2015
There was darkness everywhere.
And then the creator has commanded-let there be light!
And light it was-darkness was evaporated! From then on human species is afraid of darkness- and all through the life Homo sapiens makes relentless quest for light- from darkness…
Or rather the human conscience tells the soul to strive for the light!
Sometimes it remains unheard- sometimes it is heard-but the whisper is relentless-deep within the soul! It is the eternal journey that had prompted Orpheus to fight with death for the life of Eurydice- it is the eternal journey that had propelled Jesus Christ to be crucified for the human soul- it is the eternal journey that had empowered Mother Teresa to live a lie for the cause of others.
It is the greatness of eternal human soul that on the face of dying of thirst amid a desert, donates his last drop of water to his thirsty foe, saying-‘Thy need is greater than mine.’
This may be an anthology of poems-but it is also the manifestation of life- the beautiful journey of life-from all perspectives and from all angles.
It is a saga of that immortal soul.
The book is divided into eleven parts-deaths, grandmothers, spirits, love and marriage, children, America, sanctity, angels and monsters, aesthetics, immortality and hope.
to him, death is not an object of fear- rather death, when coming in his silent feet- will rest the tired soul into rest and make a transition from the life of grief, despair and pain. Only the creation will remain and will help him memorise-
“When I finished playing
I felt personally utterly free,
Devoid of any grief
Loss of mystery.
I now fully comprehend
The things he left behind.”
A new perspective- a new dimension has been imparted to every object around us- and narrated with utter simplicity.
Read full review at
https://jayasreesown.wordpress.com/20...
And then the creator has commanded-let there be light!
And light it was-darkness was evaporated! From then on human species is afraid of darkness- and all through the life Homo sapiens makes relentless quest for light- from darkness…
Or rather the human conscience tells the soul to strive for the light!
Sometimes it remains unheard- sometimes it is heard-but the whisper is relentless-deep within the soul! It is the eternal journey that had prompted Orpheus to fight with death for the life of Eurydice- it is the eternal journey that had propelled Jesus Christ to be crucified for the human soul- it is the eternal journey that had empowered Mother Teresa to live a lie for the cause of others.
It is the greatness of eternal human soul that on the face of dying of thirst amid a desert, donates his last drop of water to his thirsty foe, saying-‘Thy need is greater than mine.’
This may be an anthology of poems-but it is also the manifestation of life- the beautiful journey of life-from all perspectives and from all angles.
It is a saga of that immortal soul.
The book is divided into eleven parts-deaths, grandmothers, spirits, love and marriage, children, America, sanctity, angels and monsters, aesthetics, immortality and hope.
to him, death is not an object of fear- rather death, when coming in his silent feet- will rest the tired soul into rest and make a transition from the life of grief, despair and pain. Only the creation will remain and will help him memorise-
“When I finished playing
I felt personally utterly free,
Devoid of any grief
Loss of mystery.
I now fully comprehend
The things he left behind.”
A new perspective- a new dimension has been imparted to every object around us- and narrated with utter simplicity.
Read full review at
https://jayasreesown.wordpress.com/20...
September 17, 2015
Whilst not a big reader of poetry given the right poem(s) I can (and do) find myself left feeling reflective in a way that no other genre leaves me.
Divided into several different 'subject matters' - 'Death, 'Grandmothers', 'Spirits', 'Love and Marriage', 'Children', 'America', 'Sanctity', 'Angels and Monsters', 'Aesthetics', 'Immortality' and 'Hope' - there was plenty of scope for reflection but did this collection of poems hit the mark?
Yes and no.
I struggled a bit with the style but then that probably says more about me than the author. After all the style that suits one reader isn't necessarily going to suit the next.
I did find several of the poems reflective. Particularly enjoying those devoted to 'Grandmothers' and especially that entitled 'By the River with Grandma at Dusk' the first verse of which tells of a group of children sitting with their Grandma who was telling them of stories about the 'creature world, saints, old stories of when gods walked the earth among us' as dusk approached.
Not so keen on the selection entitled 'America' but, finding them largely patriotic, that once again says as much about me as a Brit as it does about the author.
What I didn't like about the book were the use of footnotes. Having what the author meant by his use of terms such as 'spirit', 'immortality' etc was fine as it was done in a chapter headed 'definitions' at the beginning of the book but I really struggled with the occasional use of footnotes at the end of some of the poems finding them somehow intrusive.
All in all, a collection of poems about subjects obviously close to the authors heart which shines through in his every word.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper.
Disclaimer: Received for review from Hugo House Publishers, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.
Divided into several different 'subject matters' - 'Death, 'Grandmothers', 'Spirits', 'Love and Marriage', 'Children', 'America', 'Sanctity', 'Angels and Monsters', 'Aesthetics', 'Immortality' and 'Hope' - there was plenty of scope for reflection but did this collection of poems hit the mark?
Yes and no.
I struggled a bit with the style but then that probably says more about me than the author. After all the style that suits one reader isn't necessarily going to suit the next.
I did find several of the poems reflective. Particularly enjoying those devoted to 'Grandmothers' and especially that entitled 'By the River with Grandma at Dusk' the first verse of which tells of a group of children sitting with their Grandma who was telling them of stories about the 'creature world, saints, old stories of when gods walked the earth among us' as dusk approached.
Not so keen on the selection entitled 'America' but, finding them largely patriotic, that once again says as much about me as a Brit as it does about the author.
What I didn't like about the book were the use of footnotes. Having what the author meant by his use of terms such as 'spirit', 'immortality' etc was fine as it was done in a chapter headed 'definitions' at the beginning of the book but I really struggled with the occasional use of footnotes at the end of some of the poems finding them somehow intrusive.
All in all, a collection of poems about subjects obviously close to the authors heart which shines through in his every word.
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper.
Disclaimer: Received for review from Hugo House Publishers, no financial compensation was asked for nor given.
December 22, 2016
Louis Alan Swartz writes beautiful and meaningful poems about life, death, immortality, spirituality and living. His words are well chosen and he often touched me deeply with his sentences. I had tears in my eyes while I was reading about death, I admired the poems about the elderly, I adored the lines about children and I devoured the verses about spirituality. I read these poems all in one sitting, I was completely spellbound and loved every single one of them.
Constructed of Magic is a book to read again and again. Every time you'll read these poems you'll discover something new. There are a few stunning drawings in the book as well and they perfectly complement the poems. I loved that the way Louis Alan Swartz sees the world has been expressed both in words and images. It's a complete collection and one that should be cherished.
The beginning of the book is incredibly strong:
'Death
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Some things I want to show you
That gave me peace of mind
You will surely find them
In the things I left behind
Dying is such a pain in the ass!'
I immediately fell in love with these lines and was positively surprised by everything that follows. I read some of the verses out loud because that made them even better. What I liked very much about this book is that the poetry is accessible. It's understandable for everyone. It's easy to read and the message is clear, so the beauty is there for everyone to enjoy. The poems are about topics that are in everyone's mind and Louis Alan Swartz manages to shed a unique light on them. He has a profound way of thinking and has translated this into words that can be read by young and old.
I love it when I'm being impressed. Constructed of Magic is a collection of poems that are dear to my heart. I highly recommend this amazing book.
Constructed of Magic is a book to read again and again. Every time you'll read these poems you'll discover something new. There are a few stunning drawings in the book as well and they perfectly complement the poems. I loved that the way Louis Alan Swartz sees the world has been expressed both in words and images. It's a complete collection and one that should be cherished.
The beginning of the book is incredibly strong:
'Death
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Some things I want to show you
That gave me peace of mind
You will surely find them
In the things I left behind
Dying is such a pain in the ass!'
I immediately fell in love with these lines and was positively surprised by everything that follows. I read some of the verses out loud because that made them even better. What I liked very much about this book is that the poetry is accessible. It's understandable for everyone. It's easy to read and the message is clear, so the beauty is there for everyone to enjoy. The poems are about topics that are in everyone's mind and Louis Alan Swartz manages to shed a unique light on them. He has a profound way of thinking and has translated this into words that can be read by young and old.
I love it when I'm being impressed. Constructed of Magic is a collection of poems that are dear to my heart. I highly recommend this amazing book.
April 17, 2015
I felt that I couldn't celebrate National Poetry Month without reading at least one collection of poem so it was very fortuitous that this came in the mail for me to review this month. It was meant to be! Constructed of Magic is a collection of poems that illustrate the immorality and beauty of the human spirit. It's broken into eleven sections: death, grandmothers, spirits, love, children, America, sanctity, angels and monsters, aesthetics, immorality, and hope. Throughout the collection there are also sketches and drawings dispersed (I'm assuming they're done by the author) that help visually impart the message and tone that Louis Alan Swartz is trying to impart. The poems range from light and cheerful, to thoughtful , and remorseful. They follow no particular style or set length, which makes it a quick and meaningful read. Below is a sample from one of the poems that I really enjoyed from the children section, "Pajamas with Feet":
"Unto himself
Harmoniously complete.
Standing on the bed
In his pajamas with feet."
It's a cute poem that sticks with you. I enjoyed this collection, some poems more than others. The only thing I didn't like is that the author (poet) put asterisks by "big" words and defined them at the end of each poem. If this was a poetry collection intended for kids I could understand, but as an adult I could have done without that. Overall, a nice rounded collection.
I received this book for free from the author in return for my honest, unbiased review.
"Unto himself
Harmoniously complete.
Standing on the bed
In his pajamas with feet."
It's a cute poem that sticks with you. I enjoyed this collection, some poems more than others. The only thing I didn't like is that the author (poet) put asterisks by "big" words and defined them at the end of each poem. If this was a poetry collection intended for kids I could understand, but as an adult I could have done without that. Overall, a nice rounded collection.
I received this book for free from the author in return for my honest, unbiased review.
December 7, 2015
This collection of poetry is divided into the following categories: Death, Grandmothers, Spirits, Love and Marriage, Children, America, Sanctity, Angels and Monsters, Aesthetics, Immortality, and Hope. The poems combine to show a wide range and encompass the human spirit, from beauty to immortality. In general, the poems are easy to understand, though the reader is likely to gravitate toward some more than others. My favorites included: “Grandma Showed Me Things,” “Rocking Horse,” “Variations on Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” “Rest,” and “You are a Miracle.”
Some of the poems include asterisked words with definitions, and these are placed within and at the end of the poem. I did find these to be a bit distracting. Readers may feel that the author is not giving them enough credit in understanding the definitions. Overall, this is a quick read with a wide variety of poems. There is a little bit of something for everyone.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for this review.
Some of the poems include asterisked words with definitions, and these are placed within and at the end of the poem. I did find these to be a bit distracting. Readers may feel that the author is not giving them enough credit in understanding the definitions. Overall, this is a quick read with a wide variety of poems. There is a little bit of something for everyone.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for this review.
May 27, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, let's forget the realistic components that might go against some of the religious beliefs (or lack thereof) of my readers. As you read above, you can see what Mr. Swartz is trying to do here and in many cases I am sure he succeeded.
But, like me, let's say you already know death isn't the end. Or, like others, you think the idea of life after death is hocum. That's fine and you don't need to alter your worldview whatsoever to read this book. It is filled with beauty. The poetry is simple and easy to understand, covering many topics relating to the human soul.
I read it in an hour, sometimes reading a poem a few times over because they were just that good. I have to keep this short here, because I believe everyone needs to come to their own conclusions when it comes to poetry, but I will say that it has been a very long time since I read something so sincere.
Mr. Swartz has a true gift!
Okay, let's forget the realistic components that might go against some of the religious beliefs (or lack thereof) of my readers. As you read above, you can see what Mr. Swartz is trying to do here and in many cases I am sure he succeeded.
But, like me, let's say you already know death isn't the end. Or, like others, you think the idea of life after death is hocum. That's fine and you don't need to alter your worldview whatsoever to read this book. It is filled with beauty. The poetry is simple and easy to understand, covering many topics relating to the human soul.
I read it in an hour, sometimes reading a poem a few times over because they were just that good. I have to keep this short here, because I believe everyone needs to come to their own conclusions when it comes to poetry, but I will say that it has been a very long time since I read something so sincere.
Mr. Swartz has a true gift!
October 13, 2015
Disclaimer: While I aim to be unbiased, I received a copy of this for free to review.
Well, now – this is a tricky book to review. On the one hand, I quite liked it at times, especially when Swartz wrote in free verse; on the other hand, there was also quite a lot of cliché. Rhyming poetry always smacks of cliché to me anyway, and then there’s the fact that Swartz uses words like ‘thee‘, which is never good – I don’t understand why you’d artificially add words that you just wouldn’t say. It’s usually a pretty good sign that the author is writing in imitation, rather than with originality.
It’s also a fairly spiritual book, which isn’t really my thing – that said, I have read a few books in the genre here and there and I have to admit that this is easily one of the better ones. I’d say that the poetry is also of a higher standard than almost all contemporary poetry I’ve been sent – bonus!
Well, now – this is a tricky book to review. On the one hand, I quite liked it at times, especially when Swartz wrote in free verse; on the other hand, there was also quite a lot of cliché. Rhyming poetry always smacks of cliché to me anyway, and then there’s the fact that Swartz uses words like ‘thee‘, which is never good – I don’t understand why you’d artificially add words that you just wouldn’t say. It’s usually a pretty good sign that the author is writing in imitation, rather than with originality.
It’s also a fairly spiritual book, which isn’t really my thing – that said, I have read a few books in the genre here and there and I have to admit that this is easily one of the better ones. I’d say that the poetry is also of a higher standard than almost all contemporary poetry I’ve been sent – bonus!
December 27, 2015
I enjoy poetry from a wide variety of sources. This is not to say that I am a poetry fanatic or that I am by any means qualified to judge poetry. That said, I was asked to read and review this book of poetry and offer my opinion. I read through the various themes more than once. I liked a few on a moderate level but nothing really jumped out at me as spectacular or touching. This could be simply because my tastes are not aligned with how Swartz prefers to write her poetry and shouldn't be taken as an indication of a lack of skill. I did not like having definitions included after the poems. This gave the book a schoolbook feel and took away from any enjoyment I may have had at the moment. I liked the occasional sketch as it gave things a more personal feel. Overall I feel this will be something some people will cherish while others never pick it up a second time. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
March 2, 2015
Louis has given us a wonderful and inspirational collection of his poetry He reminds us that we are not flesh, this is just the cloak we wear-- we transcend that as spiritual beings.
Louis is an artist who paints his images with words-- and so well he paints! I visualize his poems so easily that he has taken me back to old memories -- like "To Whom do these boots belong" about JFK's funeral. Or "Res" where he quietly tells us "Sleep rest the body. Art rests the soul."
Buy your own copy and take a journey into your own construction of Magic
Louis is an artist who paints his images with words-- and so well he paints! I visualize his poems so easily that he has taken me back to old memories -- like "To Whom do these boots belong" about JFK's funeral. Or "Res" where he quietly tells us "Sleep rest the body. Art rests the soul."
Buy your own copy and take a journey into your own construction of Magic
March 31, 2017
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This collection contains some poems that I really enjoyed, but as a whole it just didn't speak to me. I was also confused as to who was the intended audience. The collection gave definitions for words constantly, and not only did I find it distracting, but it also felt like the collection was making assumptions about the reader's intelligence. However, the book does have beautiful illustrations, and as I said I did find some poems that I really liked.
This collection contains some poems that I really enjoyed, but as a whole it just didn't speak to me. I was also confused as to who was the intended audience. The collection gave definitions for words constantly, and not only did I find it distracting, but it also felt like the collection was making assumptions about the reader's intelligence. However, the book does have beautiful illustrations, and as I said I did find some poems that I really liked.
February 16, 2015
Louis Alan Swartz's poetry suggests that in the course of an ordinary life there can be a kind of grace and beauty and, above all, knowledge. The first thing that strikes me about this poetry is the language because it is captivating. The second thing is the imagery because the work has the authority of lived experience, Then, also it is musically interesting, as a piece of rhythmic language
March 15, 2015
This transcendent book uplifts and inspires in a way that I haven't seen in a poetry compilation before. It faces death head-on, and makes us think, "What if that isn't really the end? What if it's just a way-stop in an eternal spiritual adventure?" Simple and beautifully arranged, the author's words hit their mark.
July 19, 2015
I write poetry myself so when my friend recommended this book, I was happy to read it. Constructed of Magic takes you on a journey through many areas of life including marriage, children, grandmothers, death and spirituality. I really enjoyed the poems about children (I recently had my second child); they rand very true to me. This is the simplistic yet beautiful poety that anyone can enjoy.
February 16, 2015
An exceptional collection of poems giving the reader many glimpses into the immortality of the human spirit. Some of the poems will surprise you; some will lift your spirits, pun intended!
If the subject of you as an immortal being is intriguing to you, give this book a read!
If the subject of you as an immortal being is intriguing to you, give this book a read!
August 3, 2015
This is a very strong, uplifting selection of poems that have you thinking about absolutely everything. The topics may be complex, but they are easily relatable to, wherever you are in your life. I admittedly did have my favorites, but there wasn't any that I didn't like!
October 24, 2015
I'm a big fan of amazing science fiction books, so I read this book …but I'm really glad I finally picked it up and gave it a try. This is in particular totally blew me away. It got to the heart of everything I've always loved about this book.
July 21, 2015
I loved this book! So joyous and full of life and spirit and all the things that make life beautiful! Please don't miss it.
October 23, 2016
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