Review of Looking Inwards

Praise GodWord · Post by **Praise GodWord** » 18 Jun 2023, 09:08

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Looking Inwards" by Sameer Pendse.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Looking Inwards: A Journey into Turiya by Sameer Pendse is a poetic book and also a form of self-expression by the author. This book is designed to be a contribution to the “social responsibility" poetry, as it “keeps us loving and calm, and that in itself seems to be a necessary and sufficient pre-condition (& post-condition) to life." The book begins with an essay on poetry and society, after which the content is divided into three parts: PART I – In America, PART II – Middle Years In India, and PART III – Starting In The UK. All these were written with the greatest mission of “keeping us all together in peace" through love. From a grand perspective, does poetry not serve as gasoline that keeps us running?

While reading, I realized that this book of poetry might be a function of the author's personal life. Reference was constantly made to “our boys" in a more intimate way than a foreign character. Also, the book's three parts closely reflect the author's experience. And statements like “When I came to America a decade ago" proved this to be true. I mention this because I feel that readers would better connect with a book with a definite source of experience. I love how things like family were integrated into the poem, giving it a more cultural and homely outlook. I believe other readers would feel the same.

Also, this book contains a lot of amazing poems laced with words that communicate with utmost serenity the value they possess. I enjoyed the “Basking Ridge" poem most without bias or unjust favouritism. This poem discusses a certain Emily and her existence in the new milieu (afterlife). Everyone has a different take on the afterlife; what do you think Emily should grace this current lifetime with? Many other poems across society, gender, and divinity are amazing components of this book.

However, this book contains a lot of spiritual content relating to higher devotion. This should not discourage non-religious readers, as there is a balance to this. There's no other negative issue in the book. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars due to the overwhelming benefits of reading the book, which I have discussed. As an added benefit to readers, this work of poetry is error-free. I found no errors, either typographical or misspellings.

Readers who are interested in poetry would find this material useful. Also, I believe this book to be open to a considerable sect of readers. Read this book and discover “the beauty of a poem lasts forever".

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Looking Inwards
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Amy Luman · Post by **Amy Luman** » 23 Jun 2023, 11:24

Poetry is my least favorite genre. It's almost always too much for me to understand. I do think it's good, though, for the author to be able to express themselves however they like.

Nut Cashew · Post by **Nut Cashew** » 23 Jun 2023, 14:59

I love how unique this book is and I love that it contains a lot of spiritual content. This is a good review and I would love to read more of your reviews.

Kshitija Sonawane · Post by **Kshitija Sonawane** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:04

While Western philosophy teaches people to look outside for God, Eastern philosophy tells us to look inward. Even the word Namaste means I bow to the divinity inside you. This idea will help us respect others and make ourselves as perfect or as 'divine' as possible so that we can live up to the respect that others are giving us. Congratulations on BOTD and best wishes for future projects.

Brittany Arendse · Post by **Brittany Arendse** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:20

Very well written review! I’m not averse to spiritual content but it is highly dependent on how it makes me feel. The review however suggests there is a balance and because I love poetry I will definitely give this book a chance. Well done on #BOTD

Jay Lu · Post by **Jay Lu** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:24

Your review of 'Looking Inwards' by Sameer Pendse captures the essence of the book beautifully. The blend of personal experiences and cultural elements in poetry is indeed rare. The way Pendse integrates his life journey across three countries into his work is fascinating. It seems the book transcends just being a collection of poems; it's a journey through different phases of life, each part mirroring a new chapter in the author's life. This review makes me ponder the unique way poetry can reflect an individual's growth and societal insights.

Eckhart Aurelius Hughes · Post by **Nisha DSouza** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:40

Looking Inwards by Sameer Pendse is a poetic book where the author shares his philosophical and spiritual experiences. The official OBC review was insightful, and the sample pages were eloquent. I don't enjoy poems a lot, so I will skip this one. Congratulations on the BOTD, though!

Jenna Padayachee · Post by **Jenna Padayachee** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:41

Thank you for your great and insightful review. Congratulations to the author! I read the sample and I enjoyed each page. The writings speak of soulful matters through poetic form.
I feel that the best poetry is the ones containing timeless pearls of wisdom and this seems to fall into such a classification. I particularly enjoyed " To Be and Not to Be", the title immediately brought to mind Shakespeare

However this piece by Sameer Pendse is in a class of its own. Thank you. I have noted this collection of poetry for a future read.
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ayoub ayou · Post by **ayoub ayou** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:42

I like the book because it contains a lot of spiritual content which is intresting to read

Ma Kristine Dakoykoy Rennie · 28 Dec 2023, 07:54

I'm deeply grateful for your thoughtful insights and reflections on "Looking Inwards: A Journey into Turiya" by Sameer Pendse. Your detailed exploration of the book's essence and the author's personal journey within the poetry has truly enriched my understanding of this remarkable collection.

Post by **Chitra Ayengar** » 28 Dec 2023, 07:59

Thanks for the comprehensive review. Poems about gender, divinity, after-life and so on would definitely be interesting to read. It is an added advantage that it talks about social responsibility which seems to be missing in today's day and age. Congrats on BOTD.

Post by **Martina Sette** » 28 Dec 2023, 08:02

Nice! This book weaves personal experiences into powerful poetry, creating a genuine cultural tapestry. The 'Basking Ridge' poem is really interesting. Thanks for the review!

IKECHUKWU PETER 1 · Post by **IKECHUKWU PETER 1** » 28 Dec 2023, 08:25

Very impressive to the author! I read the sample and I enjoyed each page. The writings speak of soulful matters through poetic form.
I feel that the best poetry is the ones containing timeless pearls of wisdom and this seems to fall into such a classification. Also, the author's personal journey within the poetry has truly enhanced my understanding and interest for poetry.

Asma Aisha Ansari · Post by **Asma Aisha Ansari** » 28 Dec 2023, 08:26

In "Looking Inwards: A Journey into Turiya," the mention of the author's personal journey and familial ties woven into the poetry resonates deeply. The exploration of life across America, India, and the UK promises a relatable and culturally enriched experience.

Runan · Post by **Runan** » 28 Dec 2023, 08:27

I have always been interested in spirituality. The vast experience of the author in America, India, and the UK makes this book an enjoyable read. The poems seem to keep readers together. The author incorporated family ties and culture into his poems, which bring warmth to the readers. I look forward to reading. Great review.