Layers represents pieces of me. It contains a plethora of topics from love to heartache, to injustice, to honest observations. Life can be viewed through a variety of lenses. Layers explores life experiences through the creative lenses of an artist. As a reader you will either find yourself somewhere within this work or be exposed to an unconsidered perspective.
5-star ratings are becoming rare from me. A work has to be good and it must MOVE me. The deeper I got within Arthur Smith II’s Layers, the more deeply moved I found myself. I will read this one again.
I read Layers, and it honestly felt like stepping into someone’s heart. The book moves through everything from love and joy to heartbreak, frustration, and the quieter moments that usually go unnoticed. What stood out to me most is how the author uses creativity to show that life isn’t just one story it’s a collection of layers, each one shaped by a different experience or emotion.
Some pieces felt so familiar that I saw parts of myself in them, while others opened my eyes to perspectives I’ve never considered before. It’s the kind of book that gently nudges you to reflect on your own life and the different lenses through which you see the world.
If you’re someone who appreciates honest expression, emotion, and thoughtful observations about life, I truly recommend this book. It’s heartfelt, reflective, and beautifully human.
Various poems of various length describing a perspective of injustice, love, sadness, philosophy, etc of the poet's perspective from his life / view point. Several of these poems, for me, elicited some powerful deep thought and emotion. After reading these poems, I have a brief understanding of the poet which may have been the intent.