Reviews

Made Beautiful by Use

Leah Rae
Tags

Sean Horlor’s debut book of poetry, Made Beautiful by Use (Signature Editions), contains lines that must be read out loud. The line “cologne in glass bottles,” for example, is so simple; but say it, “cologne in glass bottles,” roll it around on your tongue, “cologne in glass bottles,” and it becomes a mantra. Such lines, coupled with small, powerful statements— “desire is lonely work”—and a strict sense of rhythm, give Horlor’s work momentum. The lines in the book seem to throb, forming their own internal nervous system. The imagery always remains elegant. Even when the subject matter turns dark, Horlor makes the darkness delicate, showing a sadness that is almost peaceful, as though you are lying on a bed by an open window as a cool breeze floats in.

No items found.

SUGGESTIONS FOR YOU

Reviews
Maryanna Gabriel

More Than one way to hang a man

Review of "Hangman: The True Story of Canada’s First Executioner" by Julie Burtinshaw.

Reviews
Kris Rothstein

An Ongoing Space of Encounter

Review of "On Community" by Casey Plett.

Dispatches
Kathy Page

The Exquisite Cyclops

A writer roams her sleepscape in search of the extraordinary subconscious