Brian Walters is a rare poet –tuned to history as few have been for a generation or more. He is alert for those critical moments that reveal a place, time and a human heart with energy and clarity, and gives them to us. Bitter, terrible, sweet, whatever they are, for they are our heritage and what has formed us over the centuries. Human bravery, savagery, thoughtfulness, and passion all find a place in his work. There is even room for hope and love in spite of everything. –Howard McCord