Illuminate

by Kerrie O'Brien

Exploring the concept of oneness and the transformative nature of art, these raw and powerful reflections on grief, faith and love will speak to your heart. This is a work of astonishing beauty which truly illuminates modern existence.

Genres: Poetry

90 pages, Paperback

First published November 14, 2016

Reviews

[ClareH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book because of the beautiful cover, and honestly hadn't sat down to read poetry for about ten years. A lot of the poems are set in Paris, and remind me of its beauty. Beckett reminds me of my own search for Oscar Wilde's grave in Pere Lachaise, and how sad I was to find it covered in graffiti and rubbish. I had to remind myself that his spirit wasn't there.
A line from Matisse lives with me. "I hope the last thought I have of you is the same as the first".
An excellent, relaxing book of poetry.

[Jackie O Donnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this collection.. Kerrie makes me want to go back to Paris.. she uses her words powerfully and sparingly.. my favourites are Bud and Sundays.. I’ve given this as a gift to fellow poetry lovers and they all loved it! The cover is beautiful but it’s only a promise of what’s delivered inside..

[Rebecca · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the repeating themes of Paris and writers and artists (e.g. poems on Beckett, Matisse and Hemingway). However, I found not a single line or phrase noteworthy, which for poetry is fairly damning.

[Eims · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, that cover art 😍❤. Such a beautiful image. The collection itself is wonderful, she doesn't overuse language. Taking a less is more approach which gives the poems a stronger punch. The collection focuses a lot on heritage, knowing yourself and knowing yourself while you love someone else. It has, of course, made the shelf, 4/5 stars for me.

[Mary McCaffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you appreciate beautiful words and imagery, you will love this collection.
The poet's very personal and honest description of her visit to Paris took my breath away, in fact I was moved to tears by Notre Dame.
Outstanding work.

[Yukio · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked to read it but I don’t think the poems are very memorable.

[Liberty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh tell me
The dead don't speak
Don't love-
I tell you they do.

A short poetry collection. Quite enjoyable though perhaps too similar in style and content. Some parts really spoke to me, and the cover art is beautiful.

I think you need to be empty
To fall in love

[Siobhán Mc Laughlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely.