Review of Four Phases

[Nzube Chizoba Okeke]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Four Phases" by Ian Prattis.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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In Four Phases by Ian Prattis, the author used poetry and prose to write about his beliefs concerning nature and life. In 'Death of Orca,' he showed how human activities endanger nature to the extent that even the sea creatures suffer. In 'Nature Ignored,' he explored the effects of the pandemic and how it had affected human acknowledgment of nature. In 'White Eagle Woman,' the author took readers on a journey into the world of shamanic healing and mysticism. In 'The Future of War,' the author reiterated the importance of positive legacies, which should be based on non-violence with each other and peace with nature. Read the book for more poems.

The book was the author's medium to share his deep-rooted beliefs on specific subject matters. The author employed the use of literary elements in the expression of his message. In the first poem, 'Nature Ignored,' the author personified trees in the lines: "The trees say very little." In the same poem, there was also alliteration in the lines, "Resting through winter, memories in whispered moments waiting for the Spring sap surge."

A melancholic undertone cut through the entire book — a sense of sadness and despair. Indeed, Four Phases was not a bright, bubbly piece; instead, it demanded sober reflections. This aura exuded by the book may have something to do with the recurrent themes, like death and the devastation of nature. An example was found in the poem 'Cremation Pyres,' with its ruminations on the remnant residue of human life. Closely related to this theme was the book's reminder of human mortality and the briefness of our stay here on earth. 'Lament for a Mariner' was a call for humans to be aware of their mortality and learn to come to terms with it. In addition, this book had a spiritual element, as seen in 'White Eagle Woman,' 'The Buddha Temple,' and 'The Remembrances.'

The book projected themes that were quite significant in our modern times. One theme that dominated the book was nature. The author used his work to show the impact of COVID-19 on nature, which was a lack of acknowledgment by humans. The author further explained the need to protect our ecology and avoid 'ecocide.' The message was significant in light of the recent and continuous depletion of the planet's ozone layer and the resultant climate change. These changes occasioned by human activities had caused an increase in heat waves and the destruction of food crops. All these factors pose a danger to the continued existence of human life on earth.

Four Phases was exceptionally edited and devoid of negative elements. Poetry lovers and environmental activists would appreciate this book. I’d rate it four out of four stars.

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Four Phases
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[Ayesha Ameera Memon]

I love poetry in general, but a mix of poetry and prose talking about nature and life with a melancholic undertone sounds absolutely wonderful to me. I can’t wait to read this book and have it reach my soul like it reached yours! Great review!

[Ndagire Hassifah1]

I love poetry books and this book sounds interesting. Am impressed that the author show the impact that the pandemic made on nature with his work. Thanks for the review, I really enjoyed reading it.

[Summer Henrietta]

The themes are commendable and unique .
I look forward to reading this book.

[Eze Michael]

Writing about one's belief can be quite hectic because there are questions that'd need to be answered. I'd love to read this book and understand the author's perspective. Thanks for your honest review.