Review of Its Shadow Rakes the Grass

[Olga Malosh]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Its Shadow Rakes the Grass" by Bill Christophersen.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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Its Shadow Rakes the Grass by Bill Christophersen is a collection of poems, some of which are expressive microcosms that explore emotions such as sadness, longing, and tenderness, while others offer only a short snapshot of everyday moments. Christophersen's adept mastery of haiku is evident throughout the collection, infusing his work with simplicity and precision. Particularly notable is the delicate architecture of his sonnets, which are poignantly employed in conveying the gripping account of the author's mother's decline, adding a layer of emotional depth to the collection.

Despite these strengths, some aspects of the collection detract from its overall impact. The inclusion of certain poems feels jarring and disrupts the flow of the compilation, creating a sense of disjointedness. The compilation is divided into six parts, yet the thematic focus of each part is not clear. While "The Cypress' Knees" part primarily explores descriptions of nature, seasons, and landscapes, other parts encompass a wide range of subjects, including opinions on elections, racial attitudes, railroad accidents, AI, and the news media.

While some poems stand out as gripping accounts of life's pivotal moments, such as "Hole," others feel like mundane reflections on everyday occurrences, such as "Reading the News online" or "Donut Shop," leaving the reader searching for meaning and ultimately feeling a sense of emptiness and regret for lost time. Despite these challenges, Christophersen's collection showcases his skill as a poet, particularly in his ability to capture emotions and moments with precision. The varied forms and structures he employs, from haiku to sonnets to free verse, add a dynamic range to the collection, showcasing his versatility and creativity.

While the collection may not resonate equally with all readers due to its unevenness in tone and impact, it is a testament to Christophersen's talent as a poet. There were no typos or errors in this book, and it appears professionally edited. Its Shadow Rakes the Grass offers a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of human emotion and experience, earning it a rating of 3 out of 5 stars. I would recommend this book to students of poetry.

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Its Shadow Rakes the Grass
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