A. J. Dalton's Dark Woods Rising, illustrated by Bob Eggleton, plunges readers into a realm of unsettling beauty and darkly whimsical poetry. This collection breathes life into forgotten creatures – witches, demons, goblins, and more – conjuring vivid images from the shadowed corners of imagination. Dalton’s verses explore alternative histories and the vastness of space, weaving together chilling visions with unexpected humor. As praised by Dr. Penelope Cottier and Dr. Matt Schumacher, the poems offer a unique blend of the eerie and entertaining, releasing enslaved goblins and other fantastical beings to cast their spells upon the reader. Prepare to be beguiled by the hidden and unseen, brought to vibrant life within these pages.
Review Dark Woods Rising
"Dark Woods Rising," a collection of poems by A.J. Dalton with illustrations by Bob Eggleton, is not your typical poetry book, and that's precisely what makes it so captivating. Forget dainty verses and predictable rhymes; this is a plunge into the dark and fantastical, a journey into realms populated by goblins, witches, trolls, and AI – a thrilling blend of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. From the very first poem, I was hooked. Dalton’s writing style is incredibly vivid and immersive; his words paint pictures so clear and unsettling that you almost feel the chilling presence of the creatures he describes.
What initially struck me was the sheer originality. It's rare to find a poetry collection that so successfully blends genres and themes. One moment you're grappling with the existential dread of an AI narrative, the next you're laughing at the mischievous antics of a band of goblins. This juxtaposition works surprisingly well, keeping the reader constantly engaged and preventing any sense of monotony. The poems themselves are incredibly varied in style and length, ranging from short, punchy pieces that hit you like a lightning bolt to longer narratives that unfold slowly, revealing their unsettling secrets piece by piece. Even the free verse, which might intimidate some readers, enhances the overall feel of the book; it adds to the sense of unease, of stumbling into something ancient and unknowable.
The illustrations by Bob Eggleton are the perfect complement to Dalton’s words. They’re dark, evocative, and wonderfully strange, adding another layer of depth and atmosphere to the already rich tapestry of the poems. They're not just pretty pictures; they’re integral to the overall experience, enhancing the eerie and captivating mood. They're like peering into a grimoire, each image a portal to another world.
Beyond the fantastical elements, "Dark Woods Rising" explores surprisingly profound themes. There’s a strong undercurrent of environmental concern woven throughout many of the poems, reminding us of the fragile balance between humanity and nature. There are also glimpses of societal commentary, subtle critiques of power structures and the human condition. This isn't just a book about goblins and spaceships; it's a book about us, our fears, our follies, and our relationship with the world around us.
While the book leans heavily into the darker aspects of the imagination, it's not without its moments of humor and even levity. This balance between darkness and light, between terror and amusement, prevents the overall tone from becoming overwhelmingly bleak. It's a testament to Dalton's skill as a writer that he can create such a compelling and unsettling atmosphere while still managing to inject moments of unexpected humor and warmth.
In short, "Dark Woods Rising" is a truly remarkable collection. It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading it, a book that sparks the imagination and leaves you pondering its many layers. It’s a testament to the power of poetry to transport us to other worlds, to confront us with our deepest fears, and to remind us of the beauty and strangeness of the universe. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a truly unique and unforgettable reading experience.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.23 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 94
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Starship Sloane Publishing Company, Inc.