What do you think?
Rate this book
Dizzyrambic Imaginings
Dizzyrambic Imaginings Looking for connections and meanings: poetic, pathetic or profound? Or just drivel? The dithyramb was an ancient Greek hymn. It was sung and danced in honour of Dionysus the god of wine and fecundity. Plato thought dithyrambs to be poetry in which the poet is the only speaker; while Socrates wrote “… not by wisdom do poets write poetry… but… like soothsayers, they say many fine things, but do not understand the meaning of them." Maybe dithyrambs are just that - mindless wanderings of the imagination – or dizzy ramblings of it – dizzyrambic imaginings! A notable example of a more modern dithyramb would be: “Alexander's Feast; or, the Power of Music” by John Dryden. When I attempted to arrange this collection of poetic musings various groupings occurred to me: nature; destiny; love and hate; future; past, and so on. In the end the alphabetic arrangement of the titles seemed to be just as appropriate as any, so there you have it. Twenty five dizzy ramblings for your consideration.
53 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2017
About the author
G.J. Griffiths
13 books89 followersG.J. Griffiths is a retired science teacher with some early working experience of the photographic industry. Born in the UK he enjoys reading most genres of fiction such as sci-fi, crime/detective thrillers, historical and wildlife stories. Non-fiction reading mainly includes scientific or historical books. Walking in the English, Scottish or Welsh countryside with binoculars ready for bird-watching or other wildlife is a particular pleasure.
His first novel was Fallen Hero and the So What! series of three books followed. All three are focussed on the fictitious Birch Green High School. More recent works include poetry: Dizzyrambic Imaginings, two illustrated children’s sci-fi stories about ant-size aliens and historical novels based upon real characters from the Industrial Revolution period: The Quarry Bank Tales., Mules; Masters & Mud, The Mule Spinners' Daughters.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
His first novel was Fallen Hero and the So What! series of three books followed. All three are focussed on the fictitious Birch Green High School. More recent works include poetry: Dizzyrambic Imaginings, two illustrated children’s sci-fi stories about ant-size aliens and historical novels based upon real characters from the Industrial Revolution period: The Quarry Bank Tales., Mules; Masters & Mud, The Mule Spinners' Daughters.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 28, 2017
The poetry collection Dizzyrambic Imaginings by G.J. Griffiths at moments really caused dizziness. I am honestly not a fan of dithyramb in poetry because it reminds me of old times as I went to school and had to read some of the Greek authors. But I have to admit that the author gave the vent to writing this collection and through various aspects of thinking about everything made dizziness in my head. I have read the collection several times and I have to admit that it is very difficult to write a review, there are poems I like, but there are poems that have pushed me to give up reading. I love reading poetry and I like to me it intrigued me to continue to feel the author's thoughts, but in this collection, at moments I was literally confused until I read. I honestly have the feeling that the author has left his mind and wrote what he was thinking at that moment, but in some of the poems, I did not like it. Nevertheless, the author himself gave himself freedom and wrote about everything, and he could be praised for having inspired me with his poetry in moments of different thoughts. And that is also the basic essence of poetry. That's what I do not like someone else will be very good. Someone will surely love this collection much more, but to me personally. These poems are my favorite: A view from the cliffs, Glittering prizes, Ocra: a child exploited, One direction, RIP spider.
July 15, 2025
Poetry has that strange power of getting people to pay attention to what you’re saying. There are fewer words, they’re not always direct, and there’s always an implication that the words are packed with meaning and you’re meant to consider them more heavily than you might your typical prose book. This is the grand appeal of poetry and, in my opinion, Griffiths’ collection satisfies that appeal.
Granted, Griffiths doesn’t want you cudgeling your brain for meaning in every poem. He makes a point of telling the reader, more or less, “some of these are just for the joy of putting words together in new ways, so don’t overtax yourself.”
Helpfully, he also provides a definition of the term dizzyrambic, which has at its root in the dithyramb rather than the unstressed-stressed pattern of iambs. Dithyrambs are “an Ancient Greek hymn… sung and danced in honor of Dionysius” and, Griffiths tells us through the words of Socrates, they are written by poets like soothsayers who say many fine things but do not understand them.
Right away we understand these poems will be playful, thoughtful, and enjoyable, and whether or not they are profound, or even sensible, is less important than the Ratatouille-like blending of words to create new verbal flavors and sensations. This is the pure joy in experiencing our beautiful and complex language, with all its lovely rules and words, shattered at our feet to make new and interesting shapes.
In this collection the theme is generally about nature and we find musings on doubts about the source of knowledge, a lovely poem about a wounded robin, and my favorite, an AABB rhyming piece addressing the nightmarish anglerfish, speculation on the source of its most notable feature, and, I think, the mentally rejuvenating benefits of succumbing to the temptation of exposing yourself to nature (and possibly, very specifically, the sun—which is a fantastic transformation from an angler’s lure).
There is no consistent rhyme scheme or stress pattern present in the collection, and that’s welcome because it would become tiresome and repetitive. That lack of patternicity is refreshing as opposed to the regular pulse of a machine that would undoubtedly lull me to sleep.
The collection is very short. I zipped through all the poems very quickly--they are generally just a page or two long. In fact, I spent far more time thinking about the poems than I did reading them. This is, I think, exactly the outcome, that little bit of life outside the page, every writer hopes for.
Granted, Griffiths doesn’t want you cudgeling your brain for meaning in every poem. He makes a point of telling the reader, more or less, “some of these are just for the joy of putting words together in new ways, so don’t overtax yourself.”
Helpfully, he also provides a definition of the term dizzyrambic, which has at its root in the dithyramb rather than the unstressed-stressed pattern of iambs. Dithyrambs are “an Ancient Greek hymn… sung and danced in honor of Dionysius” and, Griffiths tells us through the words of Socrates, they are written by poets like soothsayers who say many fine things but do not understand them.
Right away we understand these poems will be playful, thoughtful, and enjoyable, and whether or not they are profound, or even sensible, is less important than the Ratatouille-like blending of words to create new verbal flavors and sensations. This is the pure joy in experiencing our beautiful and complex language, with all its lovely rules and words, shattered at our feet to make new and interesting shapes.
In this collection the theme is generally about nature and we find musings on doubts about the source of knowledge, a lovely poem about a wounded robin, and my favorite, an AABB rhyming piece addressing the nightmarish anglerfish, speculation on the source of its most notable feature, and, I think, the mentally rejuvenating benefits of succumbing to the temptation of exposing yourself to nature (and possibly, very specifically, the sun—which is a fantastic transformation from an angler’s lure).
There is no consistent rhyme scheme or stress pattern present in the collection, and that’s welcome because it would become tiresome and repetitive. That lack of patternicity is refreshing as opposed to the regular pulse of a machine that would undoubtedly lull me to sleep.
The collection is very short. I zipped through all the poems very quickly--they are generally just a page or two long. In fact, I spent far more time thinking about the poems than I did reading them. This is, I think, exactly the outcome, that little bit of life outside the page, every writer hopes for.
May 15, 2018
Dizzyrambric Imaginings by G.J. Griffiths is a wonderfully delightful collection of 25 poems. I believe one of the greatest things about Griffiths poetry is the way he mixes the wonder of science with poetic verse. Some may say that science doesn’t belong in poetry, but I disagree. I really like the poem “Minnows and Aminos” talking about the “Primordial memes of life”. I have constantly been fascinated with the Universe and the poem “Uni-Verses to Ponder” in this book highlights the wonders of space, and astronomers. If people are uninterested in this subject, I think this poem might help people change their minds. Most of the poems follow a rhyme scheme but some don’t. They are not all about science either. There are a few joyful love poems in Dizzyrambric Imaginings too. Poems such as “Garden Union” where lovers offer “seeds in/Future hope and love and passion,” and “Quiet Corners” expressing love being truly found. Most of the poems in this book are positive, but there are a couple that express a more disappointing emotion. For example, “Images” mentions “Images rising from minds where fear/fills/ The consciousness…” Griffiths poems are truly full of wonder of many different subjects. I highly recommend this book to lovers of poetry, science, emotions, and romance.
October 31, 2017
William Butler Yeats once said, “We make out of the quarrel with others, rhetoric, but of the quarrel with ourselves, poetry. Whereas Edgar Allen Poe felt poetry was a, “..Rhymical Creation of Beauty”. Regardless of which quote resonates with you, G.J. Griffiths, “Dizzyrambic Imaginings” intertwine both, into a charming, intriguing, and educational book of poetry.
Have you ever wondered if we, humans, are a creation for sadness or happiness? Is man’s creation being a friend or foe to nature? Is nature a reflection of us or are we just atoms -formulated from accidental scientific sources or God’s spectacular show? G.J. Griffith divulges his innermost pondering about these topics and the microcosm of our roles within the universe. Love, nature, doubt, challenges, and courage that surround the morals of our human existence, are cornerstones of this collection.
My English professor once said, “Poetry should move you to places you dared not yet explore. You should also have to pick up a dictionary a time or two.” This quote is fitting for G.J. Griffith’s, “Dizzyrambic Imaginings”. I thoroughly enjoyed the use of comparisons, oxymoron’s, humor, positive, and deep-image provoking thoughts. To be honest, I could not find one poem that I enjoyed more than the other. While some showed the clumsiness of man or how one can be humbled within one moment, another could correlate a Robin being courageous-exemplifying life’s challenges for spectators to behold with awe. Even the preamble was insightful and provoked thoughts to the coming pages, just as the titles are as befitting as a king to his crown. G.J. Griffith’s collection of “poetic musings”, are grouped A – almost Z in a well, laid- out format. Don’t let the systematic format fool you; the flow and enjoyment are just as abundant.
“Dizzyrambic Imaginings” is a quintessential book of modern poetry, while looking to the past to understand our future. I highly recommend this poetry for everyone, especially those who have “Certainty Doubted” within all of life’s beauty and chaos. The poetry is produced using a simple form yet perplexes the mind and resonates with the soul.
G.J. Griffith is a retired science teacher, nature lover, loving grandfather, and is beginning a new, literary adventure within the children’s, science -fiction world. All his wonderful works can be found on Amazon US & Amazon UK.
Have you ever wondered if we, humans, are a creation for sadness or happiness? Is man’s creation being a friend or foe to nature? Is nature a reflection of us or are we just atoms -formulated from accidental scientific sources or God’s spectacular show? G.J. Griffith divulges his innermost pondering about these topics and the microcosm of our roles within the universe. Love, nature, doubt, challenges, and courage that surround the morals of our human existence, are cornerstones of this collection.
My English professor once said, “Poetry should move you to places you dared not yet explore. You should also have to pick up a dictionary a time or two.” This quote is fitting for G.J. Griffith’s, “Dizzyrambic Imaginings”. I thoroughly enjoyed the use of comparisons, oxymoron’s, humor, positive, and deep-image provoking thoughts. To be honest, I could not find one poem that I enjoyed more than the other. While some showed the clumsiness of man or how one can be humbled within one moment, another could correlate a Robin being courageous-exemplifying life’s challenges for spectators to behold with awe. Even the preamble was insightful and provoked thoughts to the coming pages, just as the titles are as befitting as a king to his crown. G.J. Griffith’s collection of “poetic musings”, are grouped A – almost Z in a well, laid- out format. Don’t let the systematic format fool you; the flow and enjoyment are just as abundant.
“Dizzyrambic Imaginings” is a quintessential book of modern poetry, while looking to the past to understand our future. I highly recommend this poetry for everyone, especially those who have “Certainty Doubted” within all of life’s beauty and chaos. The poetry is produced using a simple form yet perplexes the mind and resonates with the soul.
G.J. Griffith is a retired science teacher, nature lover, loving grandfather, and is beginning a new, literary adventure within the children’s, science -fiction world. All his wonderful works can be found on Amazon US & Amazon UK.
July 8, 2025
A quirky, reflective collection — with “Looking Back” as my favorite
Dizzyrambic Imaginings is full of thoughtful and clever poems, each with its own unique voice. My favorite was “Looking Back” — a smart, funny, and slightly bittersweet take on how far technology has come. I loved the mix of historical references and modern reflections, especially how it made me think about what we’ve gained (and maybe lost) in the digital age.
Overall, a creative and enjoyable collection that balances wit with heart.
Dizzyrambic Imaginings is full of thoughtful and clever poems, each with its own unique voice. My favorite was “Looking Back” — a smart, funny, and slightly bittersweet take on how far technology has come. I loved the mix of historical references and modern reflections, especially how it made me think about what we’ve gained (and maybe lost) in the digital age.
Overall, a creative and enjoyable collection that balances wit with heart.
April 27, 2018
I enjoyed the humor in this collection: "To some it’s just a mobile, / To others just a cell. / I had to name mine Alec / So smart it makes me yell." (From the poem, "Looking Back"). Most of the poems rhyme, which lends to their upbeat nature. The more serious poems often address our place in the world, via ecology or other sciences: "Snow, solar / Or lush green climes. Oceans, precious black rock. / All surrendered to homo sapiens. / His saprophytic brain reaching to take stock." (From the poem, "Images.") Mr. Griffiths is fresh voice in poetry, who makes many clever choices in his work. I especially like the lines, "We list their bell-like tinkling call, / As it adds to the piquancy, / Of a sparkling autumnal day. / Hope Nature's best is here to stay." (From the poem, "Goldfinches.") It's nice to encounter such cheerful work.
July 12, 2025
An eclectic mix of poetry
Dizzyrambic Imaginings is a collection of thought-provoking and entertaining poetry, some rhyming, some not, addressing a wide range of subjects, from the witty to the sad, the pragmatic to the evocative and atmospheric.
It is hard to select favourites as all hold value in their own right. I enjoyed the wit of The Ballad of DIY; the irony of Santa’s gift to Goldilocks and DIY spider; the poignancy of Ocra, a child exploited; the atmosphere of Glittering prizes; the sentimentality of Garden union and Quiet corners; and the wisdom of A view from the cliffs, Images, One direction, and Looking back.
Some phrases stood out for me, like this from One direction: ‘Acceptance saves the soul of even non-believers. Breathe in new life and be loved, in amorous wanderings.’
Overall, this is a delightful read.
Dizzyrambic Imaginings is a collection of thought-provoking and entertaining poetry, some rhyming, some not, addressing a wide range of subjects, from the witty to the sad, the pragmatic to the evocative and atmospheric.
It is hard to select favourites as all hold value in their own right. I enjoyed the wit of The Ballad of DIY; the irony of Santa’s gift to Goldilocks and DIY spider; the poignancy of Ocra, a child exploited; the atmosphere of Glittering prizes; the sentimentality of Garden union and Quiet corners; and the wisdom of A view from the cliffs, Images, One direction, and Looking back.
Some phrases stood out for me, like this from One direction: ‘Acceptance saves the soul of even non-believers. Breathe in new life and be loved, in amorous wanderings.’
Overall, this is a delightful read.
July 2, 2025
Amazing Range in Topics and as a Writer
My compliments to G.J. Griffiths and his amazing range as a writer and poet. I have read several of his historical fiction novels and his talents also extend to poetry in this short collection of poems. While my favorite is RIP Spider, I was impressed with many others like Universe to Ponder, The Gift, Surprises and Sunsets, and more. His skill to write poetry on a variety of topics is very commendable. Well done.
My compliments to G.J. Griffiths and his amazing range as a writer and poet. I have read several of his historical fiction novels and his talents also extend to poetry in this short collection of poems. While my favorite is RIP Spider, I was impressed with many others like Universe to Ponder, The Gift, Surprises and Sunsets, and more. His skill to write poetry on a variety of topics is very commendable. Well done.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews