Talking Burley

by Sherry Chandler

Book of poetry

81 pages, Paperback

Published February 19, 2019

Reviews

[Karen George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sherry Chandler's Talking Burley examines the hardships and traumas of farming and consuming tobacco, along with aspects of the industry’s troubling history, woven with personal memories of growing up in that complex world. The poems intricately braid cultural and social history of Kentucky and the nation, delving into subjects such as illness, loss, strained relationships, war, debt, and greed contrasted against moments of beauty, wonder, reverence, and tenderness. She roots her poems in concrete, sensory detail, particularly of the natural world, quickened by humor and wit rubbing up against clear-sighted seriousness. Chandler captures tobacco farming, culture, and industry of the past that factored into forming our nation, seen through the eyes of various people who experienced it. She brings our country’s, Kentucky’s and her personal history alive through clear-eyed examination peppered with wit and humor. These poems are infused with multi-layered rhythm, imagery, and emotional depth, unflinching in their honesty and vulnerability, instilled with tenderness, longing, and a reverence for the land and our connections to it and our ancestors.