"I wonder how you could feel stuffed up and hollow at the same time"
I was given this ARC for an honest review, and truly, it is an honor to be given the chance to do so. I am no expert or a professional blogger and book reviewer so I'm kind of anxious but nonetheless thrilled. It wasn't hard to say 'yes' considering I would be doing this for a dear friend, I was just worried that I wouldn't do justice for his fruit of labor. But, I am one poetry-collection-read richer so here it goes...
The title alone is catchy (at least for me. Dystopia, people!). It already implies depth and character. I've already expected emotional lines and angsty proclamations, but I was impressed at how well-defined the entries are after reading the whole thing. It started out simple, evolving into sophisticated and better-crafted poetry. I could feel frustration and desperation and loneliness clamoring to be noticed, but I love how boldness and honesty overpowered the fear of being cast aside and fear of being lost, leading to admission and confrontation of one's hellish experiences. At least that's how all it got to me. Death, loss, misery, heartache, they're all part of life and I'm awed how someone as young as the author is could write and express such poignant truths. I was sad, and a tugging at my heartstrings is so constant from start to finish of reading this book. I hated to think that the author may have had to go through most of the things told. This is not for the faint-hearted. It could leave you all messed up--emotionally. (Not kidding. At all.) That's how good it was written.
A read-worthy and impressive debut.
Some of my favorites are: ODE TO MOVING ON, STONE COLD, CATCHING FEELINGS, PIECES OF ADVICE, TRAPPED, and IT BROKE ME.
I've known for awhile that the author is way too good with words and yes, my expectation was high after learning that he will be self-publishing his poetry collection. He didn't disappoint. I am so proud right now I wish I could hug him and personally congratulate him for a job well done. I'm beyond glad that the world could now know how brilliant and promising this budding author is.I would let you all know that a thing or two of the stuff written in this collection were things we've talked about and it's kind of a relief to know that they've become an inspiration for this work to come into fruition. The author is selfless and brave for sharing his take on the ugly realities of life he may have observed and experienced. Arvyn Cerezo may not be loquacious but his written words pack a mean punch.
Relatable. Genuine. Intense. Deep. It would not be a derelict dream at all.
Kudos!
