Review of Life Opens Up like a Flower

[Bethel Saint Bright]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Life Opens Up like a Flower" by Dede Meltzer.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Life Opens Up Like a Flower" by Dede Meltzer is a collection of 24 poems that address many life issues, including love, poetry, climate change, and more. The author expresses herself through well-crafted words that resonate with her feelings and emotions. If you enjoy expressive poetry, then you will love the author's poems.

I have always believed that poetry provides a window through which readers can see the content of a poet's soul. It also gives poets room to express themselves without much linguistic restrictions. The beautiful thing about poetry is that the poet is the creative force that gives life and meaning to the words of their poems. Dede's collection of poetry perfectly captures everything I've said so far about poetry. The author pours out her heart through words to make the reader connect with her on a deeper level. For instance, here's one of the ways she expresses her feelings for her lover: "Every last and first cell and sunshine nucleus you've touched through your love, your gaze—the ways you answer me." These words aren't from someone who just wants to express her poetic dexterity. These words are profound and connect with anyone who understands the rhythm of love.

I was intrigued most by two poems in this collection (I enjoyed all the poems, though). The first was "So Wide, the Lateral Moves," where the author expressed her disconnection from an oppressor and abuser with these words: "Unrefreshed is the past— the heavy, rusted chain that linked us. You know not who you are, with your bully streak leaching, seeping in; come nocturnal moments of assault." This poem would inspire hope and a possibility of freedom for anyone under any kind of oppression or abuse. The second poem that intrigued me most was "The Last Day of Chains." In this poem, the author warns readers about the dangers of climate change with these words: "We've got to run before and under the wild setting of the sun, before we break Nature—shatter her like glass, before she turns off like an artificial light for all her strength and bounty. Nature is subject to the universal delicacy: she has limits; she has needs."

There's nothing about this book that is worth disliking. The editing is exceptional, evidenced by the lack of unintentional spelling or grammar errors. Therefore, I rate the book a 5 out of 5.

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Life Opens Up like a Flower
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[Gerry Steen]

I enjoy a good book of poems, especially if it is recommended by a fellow reviewer. I look forward to reading the messages that Dede Meltzer sends us through the poetry. I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

[Lene Lena]

I appreciate your insights on “Life Opens Up Like a Flower.” Dede Meltzer’s ability to convey deep emotions through her poetry truly resonates. Your perspective on poetry as a window into the poet’s soul is spot on, and I agree that her work fosters a profound connection with readers.