Author: R.H. Swaney
Publisher: Central Avenue Publishing
Publication date: June 2, 2018
Pages: 166
Price: $19.99CAD (paperback) at Indigo Books & Music Online
Synopsis
“R. H. Swaney brings a depolarizing voice to the poetry world with this debut collection. Amongst the topics of mental health, self-love, and social progress, readers will find a soft but powerful voice that uncovers the beauty that exists inside of all of us.
Examining life and its circle from seed to withering to regrowth, the thought-provoking nature of this collection will bring readers to a place of self-exploration, reflection, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.” -Goodreads
First Sentence
“The peaceful places in our heads we yearn to exist in are where we find the seeds to our becoming.”
Review
I do not usually read poetry, but this year I wanted to open myself up to different types of genres and book types. I’ve set a goal to read at least one poetry book a month and so far I have read three poetry books in 2019!!! They are very calming to read and unlike novels, poetry books only take me a couple of days to read but I retain the words and sentences from these books for such a long time! Everything has alternate meanings or just sound super calming!!! Helps me get my zen on!
I found this book under the “must have” in poetry sign at my local Chapters. I was drawn to the beautiful floral illustrations on the cover and how it focuses on mental health but makes it take the shape of flowers. There’s six parts in the book called seed, soil, water, growth, bloom, and restore, so it really is “a walk through the garden of our becoming!”
Swaney really is a talented poet (well, according to me, a sixteen year old who has read maybe four poetry books in her lifetime. lol.) I could distinguish so much emotion from his words. Lovely Seeds: A Walk Through the Garden of Our Becoming also made me reflect on myself. It made me wonder if I was still a seed or soil or if I blooming and restoring! I liked how the author addressed mental health, self-love, anxiety, social progress and troubled childhoods. This book really inspired me to have a more positive outlook on life! Ugh, and all the references to nature! As a naturalist, I can say that I really enjoyed the added pictures and references to the beauty of nature and growth!
WHAT WE SEE BEFORE WE SLEEP
we find serenity in our rooms away from the noise of the news and social events that give us anxiety.
we are able to get away from everything, everything except ourselves.
I am reminded of this as I lie in bed at night haunted by the cracks in the ceiling as they slither like serpents towards my head.
-Lovely Seeds: A Walk Through the Garden of Our Becoming
Final Thoughts/Recommendation
This was a really great read! The poems were relatable and motivational and I can see this book really coming in handy after a long day. I recommend Lovely Seeds: A Walk Through the Garden of Our Becoming, to someone who might be doubting themselves a lot lately or to someone who just wants a deep but relaxing read!
FEEBLE ADVICE FROM WELL-INTENTIONED FRIENDS
You cannot run from what is haunting you if what plagues you comes from within.
It hurts when they tell you to just relax because you know your brain doesn’t work that way.
You wouldn’t tell the tree to be like the flower, or the flower to be like the tree.
So why do they think it’s that easy?
-I apologize for the ones who have minimized your pain.
-Lovely Seeds: A Walk Through the Garden of Our Becoming
Have a great day everyone! Let me know what you thought of Lovely Seeds: A Walk Through the Garden of Our Becoming or my review!
-Emma 🙂