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Through the Eyes of Love (poems), 2002Review of Through the Eyes of Love by Laurel Johnson of Midwest Book ReviewThrough the Eyes of Love Alexander Shaumyan ashaumyan@hotmail.com for orders ISBN 1591961548 $10.00 Soupcons of love and hope are mixed with satirical social and political commentary in this fine poetic stew. Gentle humor, American icons, alcohol and testosterone driven desire, the despairs of war, and much more are subjects of poet Shaumyan's focus. And always, underlying quietly, is a sense of sadness as is found in "I Don't Belong": I don't belong that is my deepest pain I stayed here long but like the autumn rain my tears flow from my heart where do I go? Love, freedom, and courage can be found in "Wildflower": And if a thousand deaths should rain on me, I'll feel her gentle presence come alive Within each breath I take -- now brought to life -- Ignited by her spirit bold and free. Shaumyan's Russian ancestry and creativity is addressed in "The Blood of Russia": The blood of Russia is the spring In which the poets and writers dip Their pens of madness -- on their lips The bleeding past of Russia sings. Within this poet's grief and anger, humor and desire, I found eternal human hope clearly spoken in "A Higher Way": If life has taught me anything, it is resilience in battling these demons that crush our dreams. There is not space enough to quote extensively in this review. Mr. Shaumyan's thoughts and words bear reading and inspire deeper thought, which is what I suspect he intended. Laurel Johnson Midwest Book Review |
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