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Reflections: A Mythology in Poetry & Prose
Mythology, religion, classic literature; characters made immortal who reach through time to embody our emotions and weave together a shared human experience. These are the source materials for Azure Hall's debut collection of poetry and prose.
Reflections offers readers snapshots of the author's own coming-of-age contextualized within the works of Homer, Shakespeare, Sappho, and even King James. Superimposing their stories on her own, Hall invites the reader to join the likes of Aphrodite, Lilith, Eve, and more as they wade through the beautiful, and often treacherous, waters of womanhood. Find yourself within the threads of a universal story, surrounded by a chorus of characters who have walked the same road.
With lyrical language and heartbreaking vulnerability, Reflections blurs the line between allegory and reimagining to create something wholly its own.
Reflections offers readers snapshots of the author's own coming-of-age contextualized within the works of Homer, Shakespeare, Sappho, and even King James. Superimposing their stories on her own, Hall invites the reader to join the likes of Aphrodite, Lilith, Eve, and more as they wade through the beautiful, and often treacherous, waters of womanhood. Find yourself within the threads of a universal story, surrounded by a chorus of characters who have walked the same road.
With lyrical language and heartbreaking vulnerability, Reflections blurs the line between allegory and reimagining to create something wholly its own.
108 pages, Paperback
First published November 17, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
November 18, 2023
such a wonderful collection of poetry. one of my favorites
December 18, 2023
A book of poetry and short essays. I found myself reading some of the poems twice to make sure I gave every word all my attention. Even found myself reading it out to my husband to share the beauty of it.
January 18, 2024
Reflections: A Mythology in Poetry & Prose by Azure Hall is an enthralling anthology of stories and poems that delve into the lives of mythological feminine figures reimagined through a contemporary lens. Hall masterfully weaves historical narratives with her unique perspective, offering a fresh take on influential mythological tales. The piece "Homemaking in Wartime" illustrates the disruption of daily life by "Trojan Horse houseguests," while "Odysseus" captures Penelope's longing for her absent lover. "Salt" poignantly depicts the internal conflict of a woman haunted by a past love. This collection stands out as a profound exploration of femininity, love, and the enduring power of mythology.
Hall's innovative approach breathes new life into these ancient stories. Her depiction of Aphrodite as a modern seventh-grader grappling with societal expectations regarding femininity illuminates the timelessness of these narratives. This modern-day Aphrodite becomes a symbol of resistance against prescribed norms, mirroring the struggles of young women today. The book's lyrical prose and evocative metaphors, such as "With each strike, the pointed chisel went deeper, unleashing you like a lily leaning towards spring," showcase Hall's skillful blend of artistic expression and natural imagery. The concise, engaging titles further enhance the collection, inviting readers into each new story with curiosity and anticipation. The first-person narratives, brimming with palpable emotions, establish a deep connection between the reader and the characters.
Reflections is a testament to the complexity of human emotions and societal roles, offering insightful commentary on heartbreak, desire, growth, and the constraints imposed by society. It's a must-read for those who appreciate the intricate interplay between mythology, poetry, and the exploration of authentic feminine voices. Each piece not only enthralls but also leaves a resonating impact, making Reflections a memorable journey into the depths of myth and emotion.
Hall's innovative approach breathes new life into these ancient stories. Her depiction of Aphrodite as a modern seventh-grader grappling with societal expectations regarding femininity illuminates the timelessness of these narratives. This modern-day Aphrodite becomes a symbol of resistance against prescribed norms, mirroring the struggles of young women today. The book's lyrical prose and evocative metaphors, such as "With each strike, the pointed chisel went deeper, unleashing you like a lily leaning towards spring," showcase Hall's skillful blend of artistic expression and natural imagery. The concise, engaging titles further enhance the collection, inviting readers into each new story with curiosity and anticipation. The first-person narratives, brimming with palpable emotions, establish a deep connection between the reader and the characters.
Reflections is a testament to the complexity of human emotions and societal roles, offering insightful commentary on heartbreak, desire, growth, and the constraints imposed by society. It's a must-read for those who appreciate the intricate interplay between mythology, poetry, and the exploration of authentic feminine voices. Each piece not only enthralls but also leaves a resonating impact, making Reflections a memorable journey into the depths of myth and emotion.
January 14, 2024
Wow. Beautifully crafted, so well-written, brave in its rawness and willingness to expose the deepest layers. So many thoughts came to mind when I spent time with these pages. Reading Azure Hall's powerful prose was like a walk in the forest amongst the tallest of trees, their wisdom encouraging me to rise up and not lose sight of myself in this business of living. I think she's got a long career ahead of her in poetry and beyond. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews