This collection of poetry moves between two different writers and styles. There are notecards on which messages appear in black marker, taken out of context, with references best understood by their creator, who happens to be the daughter of the author. Pop culture references and allusions about unknown individuals abound on the cards, and more than a few items get crossed out. Following each notecard is then a poem wherein the author seeks to translate the thoughts or ideas presented on it, all while providing valuable life and relationship advice for his daughter. In essence, the poems act as intimate interpretations of the notecards based on the experiences of the author and are used to elaborate on their messages to give a better picture of what they might represent.

One of the best ways this collection of poetry shines is in the obvious warmth that comes from sharing the notecards and providing poetic interpretations of them. Sometimes it is hard, with time and the way the world naturally changes, for different generations to fully understand each other. As such, translating the notecards feels very much like thoughtful steps taken to bridge that gap. There is also the guidance learned through past experiences that might be helpful in the future, which gets provided with much care and love. The heartfelt nature of such an endeavor makes this read more than a little endearing and a perfect present for parents to their children. In fact, it would be easy to see this collection being given from a parent to a child before they graduate from high school or college in honor of their special bond.

Return to USR Home