A review by jayisreading
Loving the Dying by Len Verwey

reflective sad medium-paced

3.0

Loving the Dying is a contemplative collection of poems that considers the different stages of life (i.e., aging). Verwey writes in a very accessible fashion; there are no frills or particular experimentation in these poems. Instead, he asks that you take the poems as they are and think about the nature of death and grief in our lives.

These poems are deeply personal, so much so that I sometimes felt some ideas were a bit beyond the understanding of the reader (unless they happen to know the poet). I will also say that I didn't feel there was enough substance for me to fully latch onto the themes and overall message that the poet may have wanted the reader to take away from this short collection. (That being said, this is more reflective of my personal tastes.)

The titular poem is definitely one to think about though, which quietly brought this collection together with grace.

Note: I received a finished copy from the publisher.

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