 |
for all of us to live and dwell;
and if we just take care of it,
it might last for our children as well."
England’s poetry compilation covers a range of topics and observations from nature and love to daily activities such as drinking coffee and smashing the ever-irritating mosquito. Though there is not always a particular rhyme scheme, there is a consistent structure among the poems that results in a seamless flow. More than anything else, England’s work has strong energy and is a strong platform for him to share his unique experiences throughout his life.
Many poems focus on flowers, but “A Rose” is one that delivers layered meanings as the speaker suggests that even the weakest of seeds will blossom with the right touch and nurturing. With nature and love being intricately linked, England dwells on nature’s icy winds and the Michigan woods, particularly zeroing in on the sensory details that make the dawn enticing. Whether it is the chickadee, the blue jay, or a coon hunt, England’s poetry is relatable to hunting aficionados and those who are immersed in nature on a daily basis.
Aside from nature and love, England’s work contains thought-provoking poetry at different moments of the lifespan. For example, in “Invisible” the speaker recalls the feeling of being lost during the high school years, but then he digs into the triggers of insomnia that keep countless individuals reliving their decisions and heightening their stress levels. Perhaps the most heartbreaking piece is “Empty Nest,” where the speaker touches on life’s reality: The individual builds his life around his family, and yet, when the family is fully grown, they go off and build their families, often leaving the inhabitants of the original nest in complete solitude with the exception of holidays and special occasions. Overall, England’s work offers salient observations plus a worthwhile, and quite relatable, experience for all audiences.