This is definitely a book I liked dipping into slowly, a poem or two a day. They’re comforting and calm, but also deep and heavy at times, which somehow works really beautifully. I found little bits in almost every poem that I could relate to or empathise with, which made it feel really personal.
I loved the line art illustrations throughout, they break things up so nicely and feel powerful in their own quiet way, not overstated or dominating.
My favourite was “the sky will hold you”, that line about the sky stretching “like a thought you aren’t capable of finishing” really made me feel quite deeply. I also loved “rough seas do not last”, it felt like a tiny pep talk about storms passing and life never staying the same.
I enjoyed that it’s split into parts too, starting with shorter pieces and moving into more descriptive poetry, then ending with poems tied to places and moments in time. It all feels reflective, gentle, and quietly hopeful. A really lovely collection to sit with when you need something soft but meaningful.
This has a comforting, calming and restful rhythm I like. Its in part about nature, loneliness and reassurance. Not a big commitment reading wise - a short, easy and enjoyable read. I particularly enjoyed Messages in Bottles.