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WordShapes
"Each poem exists as its own essence, its own song, even if for only a glimpse—offering that momentary something."
ebook
Published September 28, 2018
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
July 25, 2025
I have to admit, I enjoy Jessica Schneider's poetry to that of her husband and equally talented writer Dan Schneider. Jessica's verse is more emotionally driven and playful with her language, a skill I tend to be more drawn to as I age. Like the duo Percy Bysshe Shelley and his wife Mary, this is a couple that really practice their craft, ignoring the shallowness of post-Rumi imitation and honing in on the essence of what is contemporary poetry.
The only critique I really have is Jessica's introduction, in which she admits to rewriting and struggling with her verse. Poetry is a skill I always found that came naturally to me when inspired by a muse or friend. The idea of laboring over a poem and having to rewrite it speaks of doubt and perhaps an immaturity that must be a central component of Jessica's artistry. In this regard, I am more drawn to her husband's more boastful nature, though perhaps doubt would serve my own writing with a necessary kick from time to time.
Whatever the case, this is a very heartfelt collection of poetry that has sadly been ignored by many more terrible writers. If the MFA and academia have killed talent, then death may be the only way to truly achieve fame the way this author dearly craves. Mind you, that already cements her with many of the greatest of authors, but it does not make the artistic drive for acceptance any easier.
I fear this may be the death sentence for my own career...
The only critique I really have is Jessica's introduction, in which she admits to rewriting and struggling with her verse. Poetry is a skill I always found that came naturally to me when inspired by a muse or friend. The idea of laboring over a poem and having to rewrite it speaks of doubt and perhaps an immaturity that must be a central component of Jessica's artistry. In this regard, I am more drawn to her husband's more boastful nature, though perhaps doubt would serve my own writing with a necessary kick from time to time.
Whatever the case, this is a very heartfelt collection of poetry that has sadly been ignored by many more terrible writers. If the MFA and academia have killed talent, then death may be the only way to truly achieve fame the way this author dearly craves. Mind you, that already cements her with many of the greatest of authors, but it does not make the artistic drive for acceptance any easier.
I fear this may be the death sentence for my own career...
Displaying 1 of 1 review