Book Blurb:
The Goodbye Song is a powerful volume that “tightens your throat.” Author, Karl Kristian Flores, masterfully guides readers across a stunning collection of thought. This book is like an important adventure that carries you everywhere. In today’s busy world, penetrating one’s heart may not work with an axe, a shout, or a lecture, but rather a haiku, a recipe, and a dialogue. From fictional letters written a hundred years ago to short stories about humanity’s future, The Goodbye Song is brave, direct, and beautiful.
I received this book from the author for free. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and this review is voluntary.
Lexi’s Review:
Mr. Flores put a lot of time, thought, energy, and precision into these 286 pages of poems, sonnets, haikus, letters, scenes, objects, definitions, directions, entries, and recipes. The main emotion that I take away from this book of poetry is the futility of life and work, and a desire to find something more.
“A broken spirit, an imprisoned soul: Deadened, would-be, unhappy, wasted” (Flores 22).
I think that most readers can relate to these feelings of futility.
I personally had a hard time sticking with this book for two reasons. First, it’s so long and dense. I really admire Mr. Flores for the impeccable precision of his poetry, but it was hard for me to remain focused on the density of the poetry. Secondly, I struggled with the cynical or pessimistic view of the world that Mr. Flores presents. It’s true that the world is broken and futile, but I personally don’t care to focus so much on that.
In conclusion, I highly recommend The Goodbye Song to anyone who enjoys poetry and reflection. I would recommend that you go into this book knowing that this isn’t a pleasure read, but more of a serious reflection on the futility of life and the brokenness of modern society.
Mr. Flores put a lot of heart into this book and perfectly executed his intentions. However, because it was so long and I couldn’t resonate with the poet’s emotions, I give this book three stars.
I received this book for free from the author. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and this is a voluntary review.
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