Review of Second Coming

[Omneya Shakeep]

I'm not a poetry fan, but the topic of the poems seems interesting. Although, I think that reading your analysis of this collection is more enjoyable for me than reading the actual poems. Thanks for the recommendation though.

[Lene Lena]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Lobibah Oji Baraka’s poetry. It’s wonderful to hear how his free verse resonates with you, evoking both nostalgia and introspection. The personal nature of his work indeed allows readers to connect deeply with his experiences, making each poem a unique journey.

[Susan Ledezma]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Second Coming" by Lobibah Oji Baraka.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Do you like free verse poetry? Would you like to learn what it is like to live in Baltimore, USA, through the words of an African-American sexagenarian? Would you want to read thought-provoking verses about topics ranging from the joys of youth to the high murder rate in Baltimore? If you answered yes to these questions, you’ll enjoy reading Second Coming: Return of the Herd by Lobibah Oji Baraka.

Lobibah Oji Baraka can be praised for intensely expressing his ideas and feelings through the use of free verse poetry. Free verse poetry does not make the use of rhyme or rhythm. It is very personal and gives the reader access to the poet’s innermost thoughts. As I read this book, I felt that the author was baring his soul to me. At times, this made me feel uncomfortable, and at other times, I was smiling because I could identify with the feelings being described.

There were poems that reminded me of my youth, such as “Momma Was Right”, which explained why the author’s mother gave him a name that he did not like, and “Wet”, which described the joy he received from water as a child. Another poem, such as “ That Spirit Thing”, concerned the author, who had always considered himself to be an East Baltimore native, learning unexpectedly about his African heritage from international students attending Morgan State University. “The Lyrical Lion Of Harlem /This Is Why” tells us about Langston Mercer Hughes, who spoke up for all Americans while testifying before Senator McCarthy regarding his alleged association with a communist party. These poems were a few of the many that captured my interest.

I enjoyed reading this book because each poem presented impactful ideas in a few verses. The poems tapped my emotions, made me think, and spurred me on to do research about historical figures and events. Each poem was either a discovery or a rediscovery. I was grateful that the author shared his thoughts about social issues, nostalgia, music, grief, loss, love, African heritage, Baltimore, politics, racial injustice, Christianity, the generation gap, and the evils of violence.

This collection of poems was well-written and professionally edited. I could not find anything to dislike about this collection of poems. I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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Second Coming
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

I have been looking for a new poetry book to read and this seems like a perfect fit. This poetry collection seems to cover a wide variety of topics and I am interested in giving it a try and seeing what it has to say. Thank you for the review!

[Seetha E]

I enjoyed reading this book because each poem presented impactful ideas in a few verses. The poems tapped my emotions, made me think, and spurred me on to do research about historical figures and events.

True-impactful thoughts in a few verses.
After reading this promising review of Second Coming, I d/l the sample. It's good to know that interesting subjects have been selected. (Arts, Death, Love, Society, and Self.) I like the ease with which the author expresses his thoughts. I could connect with: You ought to know... Do you mind me being alright...
Amazing review! 

[Magdalyne chebet]

"Second Coming: Return of the Herd" by Lobibah Oji Baraka offers a heartfelt exploration of African-American identity, nostalgia, and social issues through free verse poetry. This insightful review has sparked my curiosity, and I’d love to delve into the poet's world. Thank you Gerry.

[Naimah Agboluaje]

The review provides great insight into "Second Coming: Return of the Herd" by Lobibah Oji Baraka. The use of free verse poetry is praised for its personal and emotive nature, allowing readers to connect with the author's thoughts and experiences. The poems touch on various topics, from youth and nostalgia to social issues and political events. The reviewer appreciates the impact and thought-provoking nature of each verse. The book is highly recommended for those who enjoy free verse poetry and want to gain a deeper understanding of life in Baltimore from an African-American perspective. Overall, it receives a well-deserved rating of 5 out of 5. Touching moments, brought tears to my eyes.

[Diana Lowery]

Thank you for sharing your opinion about this book. This sentence (As I read this book, I felt that the author was baring his soul to me.) jumped out to me because it expresses what I think should be the ultimate goal of poetry.

[Damilare Emmanuel Omikunle]

Poetry calms the soul and the words resonates in minds. This book will definitely be a masterpiece.

[Corinna Borsato]

Very insightful review! I appreciated the perspective on the beautiful pieces of poetry and was motivated to read them for myself. Thank you, well done!

[Martina Sette]

I really like poetry and poems, so I think I'll read this book. Thank you for your review! Everything is explained perfectly.

[Julie Marie Basil]

Based on your review, I believe that I would enjoy this collection of poems. It sounds like the author wrote poems that were relatable and portrayed strong emotions.

[Elizabeth-Tush4Christ]

This collection of poems sounds like one that will get you emotional and hooked. I can imagine the author's thoughts while putting this together, and based on this review, I believe this is an interesting book to watch out for. I enjoy learning as much as I can about other cultures and countries, so yes, this will be a good fit for me. Thank you for the detailed review.

[Terry Kimble]

Gerry, your review has inspired me to give poetry a try once more. I have always had a love/hate relationship with this genre. Free verse definitely sounds interesting! Great review!

[Joe Alex 2]

The collection seems to offer an emotionally charged exploration of both personal and societal topics, with a strong focus on history, culture, and social issues. The author’s ability to connect with readers through free verse poetry, evoking reflection on various themes like racial injustice, nostalgia, and love, makes it sound compelling. While the subject matter appears thought-provoking, it’s not a book I’d likely read in the near future.

[patricia MGBEMENA]

I like that the author is able to express his feelings and ideas immensely using poetry and this is an art hard to master. I really appreciate reading this review.