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The deepest traumas and wounds hold the potential to ignite immense faith and resolve. Duncan-Fowler's poetic compilation is one such example as it takes vulnerability and authenticity to the next level. Juxtaposing it with an impeccable command of the poetic word, the brunt of the work comes across as a lyrical masterpiece, a lesson on rhythm and pace.
From the get-go, "Back When" features the speaker going through life's various points, particularly the anguish of growing up without a father. The poet knows exactly when to emphasize certain words or break apart sentences for emphasis, and this is rarely more apparent than in "Brainwashed," which uses the rhythmic repetition of the word "bamboozled" to delve into more serious topics that simultaneously romanticize love and unpack pivotal issues that unravel the male/female dynamic.
Stylistically, the poetry is tailor-made for the spoken word, which is undoubtedly a strength of the poet. Through this strength, she honors the challenges her mother faced and reaches a strong conclusion that, as humans, we are not powerless in manifesting our destiny, a pathway to a positive future outlook. Specifically, in "Choices," the poetry takes a deeper, more reflective, and poignant tone as the poet depicts time as life's prison.
At the same time, the compilation creates a seismic shift in one's thought towards life: it isn't what happens to you; essentially, it is how that is processed in the mind. While poems like "Pink" probe a deeper topic of drug use, "Supreme Safety" shines a laser into the faith-based evolution experienced. Overall, a knack for poetic command coupled with an interesting and intensely personal story makes Duncan-Fowler's work an enticing read.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review