These poems speak to struggle stemming from both the internal and the external–a collection deeply rooted in the human experience, life philosophies, identity politics, faith, shame, pride, trials, and triumph. The common thread throughout is identity and asks: Who are we? Why are we made to sometimes feel sub-human? How does this feeling impact our overall wellness from a physical, emotional, social, and spiritual point-of-view? And most importantly, how do we strive to see the light in people and in ourselves, despite such turmoil–this dichotomy between light and dark.

EARLY PRAISE:

Never before have I been so taken by onomatopoeia–do not simply read this collection, but instead listen. – C. M. Tollefson, Cathexis Northwest Press

As if Coltrane and Marcus Aurelius shared their secrets, Carroll’s meditations express free and bold cathartic verse. – Samuel Griffin, founder, The Esthetic Apostle

This marvelous collection navigates the desires of humanity with rhythm, repetition, and grace, demonstrating an ambitious orchestration of form on the page. – J. David, poetry editor for Flypaper Magazine