GeorgeAnne Smith’s ‘A Voice in the Night’ offers seventy-five pages of insightful poetry, reflecting on the nuances of everyday life. The collection explores a range of themes, from relatable frustrations with mundane tasks like shopping and dealing with solicitors, to a deeply felt tribute to those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities. One particularly impactful poem delves into the perspective of someone grappling with the revelation of a past molestation, highlighting the hidden struggles individuals often face.
Smith’s previous work, ‘Within You,’ resonated deeply, striking a chord that lingered for days. ‘Last Words of a Beauty Queen,’ overflows with a love for nature, forging a connection with readers who share a similar appreciation for the natural world. ‘The Flow’ poignantly illustrates that poets are not driven by aspirations of wealth or fame, but by a sincere desire to alleviate the burdens of others, offering solace and a sense of belonging through their words. ‘With Eyes Open’ touches on the cathartic power of writing, acting as a release for the writer.
The collection incorporates a distinctive stylistic element, featuring subtly inverted phrases such as “searching we are, a golden life” and “on target, we all are,” adding a unique rhythm and depth to the poems.
A poignant excerpt from ‘Awaken This Lifetime’ encapsulates the collection’s overarching message:
“Life may seem, but a merry chase,
Quite overwhelming, a dreary fate
Don’t get discouraged by a hurried pace,
Seek to awaken, for its never too late”
‘A Voice in the Night’ (ISBN: 1-4137-9489-0), published by Publish America on Sept. 15, 2005, is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant collection that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys through life.