The Circle in the Square is the first collection of prose and poetry from author K C Pearson. The book takes readers on an honest journey through the intrinsic pain of love, loss, grief, anxiety, strength, healing and living.
Pearson is beautifully cynical – which greatly appeals to me and the own cycnisym I find myself writing into my work!
The poem ‘Values’ explores all of the wonderful things she has done and can do, and finishes the poem ‘ But what does it all matter? Compared to someone who is/Beautiful’ , nicely encapsulating the unspoken privilege that the beautiful are sometimes handed.
A writer after my own heart, Pearson’s sentiment on determination and success is summed up in her poem, ‘Decisions’:
‘The only Things in life That you Cannot do; Are those that You did not Want badly Enough.’
This poem is a great one for me to highlight the strengths in Pearson’s work – her voice and message, but also a good example for me to dissect. I think some of the poems suffer from a lack of consideration when it comes to line breaks – I honestly think this is such a big part of style and sophistication as a writer.
My favourite poems were ‘Society’, in which Pearson analyses our life’s cycle and from her perspective, how marriage is a pre defined role, ‘We only play; It’s all pretend’ and ‘Bread and Circuses’ which explores our vapid generation, conversation revolving around vapid celebrities. This is what I love to explore in my own work – and I enjoy poems which takes a stance on society in this way!
I decided that after reading this book, I should always carry a book with me. I read this in a single sitting last week, but for some reason, I decided to carry it with me around for a while. Poet KC Pearson's words needed to be visited again. It wasn't random, or convenient, or whatever reason my anal brain needed to give, it just is. Much like this book of poetry. They read like musings never meant to be said out loud; or a random observation, a passing, casual "huh," spoken out loud to the Universe. It didn't have to make sense, though it did...it just....is. From beginning to end, I got a little lost in her world. Pearson spoke of what ifs, and star crossed lovers, and societal norms that made me laugh, and think. She writes about what fitting in, and claiming a mark on this world...and how it's perfectly wonderful to just be a 'circle in the square.'
***I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. I am not required to write a positive one. These thoughts and opinions are my own.***
A lovely and easily enjoyable collection of poetry. I can really relate and identify with many of the themes in the poems. I received this book from the author in a Goodreads giveaway.
This is the most wonderful collection of poetry I have ever read. It is a perfect example of modern, daring poetry, where no words are wasted, and every line gives you a different kick. Pearson writes so thoughtfully and honestly, and the book is well worth the read.
Edit: Years later and I still love reading some of these poems -2023
I love it ! I don't even know where to start the reason why I loved it so much. I feel like reading a poem is not just reading it , depending on when you read it it calls to u differently. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting at a moment in my life when I'm questioning myself a lot, my self worth, my place in this world and reading these poems puts thoughts into words obviously better than I ever could. The entire book is a discussion with yourself , no lying about how you feel just saying it , about self-doubt and all that but at the same time showing the beauty in the world, the beauty in what could be. I definitely have to read it again , maybe when I'm happier or more sad to see it through different eyes . My favorites I think at the moment are : ''Work'', '' Memories'' , '' Invincible'' , '' Contentment'', ''Time'' , and so much more... I really loved it , a lot of them are going into my favorite poems section of my brain . And I have to say the choice of the first and last poem is amazing, so beautifully put. Thank you for this amazing read and the opportunity to read it because of the giveaway , became one of my favorite books in a heartbeat. - 2017