Profoundly powerful and evocative in voice and tone, this collection of introspective and visionary poems is inspired by Barbara Paul-Emile’s search for deeper meaning behind the seemingly disparate experiences of life. The thoughts and feelings expressed in this collection reveal a compassionate and mystical approach towards experience. In the words of the poet, the dance of life is the continual flow between pain and joy, fear and love, hopelessness and triumphant overcoming demanded of us as we negotiate the field of existence. This collection is influenced by the rich shamanic heritage of the West Indian islands and follows Paul-Emile’s recently published novel, SEER, a magical tale of redemption set against the lush landscape and spicy aromas of the Caribbean. Described as an exciting new literary voice with broad cross-cultural appeal, the poet speaks with the interpretive depth and power of the mythic shaman who has found the bridge that connects to deeper realities. - Barbara Paul-Emile is Professor of English and Maurice E. Goldman Distinguished Professor of Arts and Sciences at Bentley College, Waltham, MA.