Official Review: Sincerely Speaking Spiritually

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 15 Jun 2020, 12:30

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Sincerely Speaking Spiritually" by Joseph S. Spence Sr..]

3 out of 4 stars

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Sincerely Speaking Spiritually by Joseph S. Spence Sr. is an inspirational collection of poetic prayers. As the author and co-author of a combined total of nine poetry collections, Spence describes the spiritual aspects of poetic prayer: "Prayer and poetry alter the consciousness and give a deeper perception of life in reaching out to others." His collection features a variety of poetry forms, including spiritual narratives, freeform, invented styles, and epulaeryu. The book also includes a definitive glossary of the various poetry styles and forms.

Spence begins the professionally edited collections with a detailed introduction to the different poetry styles featured in each of the five sections and concludes with an in-depth glossary of spiritual poetic forms. His comprehensive approach will appeal to poetry novices, as well as more experienced connoisseurs. However, I find Spence's tendency to share additional notes following individual poems distracting; when I read poetry, I enjoy contemplating it and interpreting it myself. In some instances, the notes are longer than the poems and providing them in a separate appendix is a preferable alternative. I would compare it to the difference between leisurely perusing beautiful art in a gallery to viewing the same exhibits during a guided tour. I prefer the former but acknowledge others may appreciate the latter.

"Your Omnipresent Love" is an inspirational decree based on Ephesians 6:11 and Psalms 18:34 and 39. Readers will appreciate Spence's inclusion of poetic prayers for specific people and issues, such as prayers for soldiers, fathers, children, suicidal thoughts, and gun violence. On a lighter note, "Thank You, Lord, for This Great Treat" is a joyous celebration of Thanksgiving dinner, which is sure to evoke smiles, warm memories, and perhaps sudden cravings for turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

A few other poems I particularly like are: "Forgiveness Tears" and "Walk Beside Me, Lord." I also enjoyed the fourth section: "Epulaeryu Poems," a style created by Spence in 2006. He describes the theme as "...succulent dishes and drinks" and provides scripture references for the inspiration for each poem. For example, "The Best Taste" is about Jesus's first miracle in Cana when he turns water into wine.

Overall, I rate Sincerely Speaking Spiritually 3 out of 4 stars. Although the superfluous notes slightly detract from work as a whole, the collection offers uplifting, inspirational, and encouraging words. I recommend the book to fans of spiritual poetry and poetic prayer. On the other hand, it will likely not appeal to readers who do not believe in God.

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Sincerely Speaking Spiritually
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Gabrielle Sigaki · Post by **Gabrielle Sigaki** » 16 Jun 2020, 06:00

I'm not religious, but I'm interested in reading books about spirituality and I love poetry. Maybe I'll give it a try. Thanks for the honest review!

sirbobthewise · Post by **sirbobthewise** » 16 Jun 2020, 07:35

This sounds like such a neat idea for a book. I think the notes would definitely bother me as well, and I think an appendix would have done the trick. That way people can decide for themselves whether they wish to read his interpretations or not. The variety of styles for poetry is enjoyable, and I can imagine taking the book out and thumbing through to see what might fit my needs for the day. Great review!

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 16 Jun 2020, 10:23

sirbobthewise wrote: ↑16 Jun 2020, 07:35 This sounds like such a neat idea for a book. I think the notes would definitely bother me as well, and I think an appendix would have done the trick. That way people can decide for themselves whether they wish to read his interpretations or not. The variety of styles for poetry is enjoyable, and I can imagine taking the book out and thumbing through to see what might fit my needs for the day. Great review!

Thank you for your comment.

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 16 Jun 2020, 10:24

gabrielletiemi wrote: ↑16 Jun 2020, 06:00 I'm not religious, but I'm interested in reading books about spirituality and I love poetry. Maybe I'll give it a try. Thanks for the honest review!

You're welcome. I appreciate your comment.

Ruth kunda · Post by **Ruth kunda** » 16 Jun 2020, 11:43

I love the spiritual poetry. Quiet an interesting piece of poetry.

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 16 Jun 2020, 13:57

Ruth kunda wrote: ↑16 Jun 2020, 11:43 I love the spiritual poetry. Quiet an interesting piece of poetry.

Thank you.

Post by **Diana Lowery** » 17 Jun 2020, 15:55

I liked your analysis of the Thanksgiving poem. It is my favorite holiday, so I am sure I would love this poem as well.

Maxwil1 · Post by **Maxwil1** » 19 Jun 2020, 02:04

This is a nice poem, it brings you closer to the maker and acknowledge his presence. I encourage you do more of this kind because it brings people close to God.

Aftab Yunis · Post by **Aftab Yunis** » 20 Jun 2020, 07:07

Thank you for being too honest to tell in your analysis that the world is not believing in God and your recommendation to read this book is noteworthy to note. I appreciate your way to summarize the books. I would also like to read this book.

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 20 Jun 2020, 16:34

diana lowery wrote: ↑17 Jun 2020, 15:55 I liked your analysis of the Thanksgiving poem. It is my favorite holiday, so I am sure I would love this poem as well.

Thank you, Diana!

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 20 Jun 2020, 16:34

Maxwil1 wrote: ↑19 Jun 2020, 02:04 This is a nice poem, it brings you closer to the maker and acknowledge his presence. I encourage you do more of this kind because it brings people close to God.

Thanks for your comment.

Cecilia_L · Post by **Cecilia_L** » 20 Jun 2020, 16:35

aftabyunis wrote: ↑20 Jun 2020, 07:07 Thank you for being too honest to tell in your analysis that the world is not believing in God and your recommendation to read this book is noteworthy to note. I appreciate your way to summarize the books. I would also like to read this book.

Thank you.