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Somehow your photoplay involved foul play."
This poetry collection is unexpectedly illuminating and deeply human. Although its subject matter might suggest something heavy or morbid, the author approaches each life with care, creativity, and emotional nuance. The result is an eclectic set of poems that feel individually crafted, offering readers a fuller understanding of the people behind each tragedy. This approach aligns with biographical poetry and memorial literature, allowing each piece to function as both a tribute and artistic interpretation.
One standout piece is "Erasure: Mother I Know You Will Grieve…," a blackout poem created from Ida Craddock's letter to her mother. The circled words, paired with the striking illustration, intensify the emotional resonance and demonstrate how visual form can deepen meaning. The portraits throughout the book add another layer of connection, putting faces to the stories and grounding each poem in lived experience, which helps readers engage more personally with each narrative.
The author's willingness to experiment with structure keeps the collection engaging. The most inventive piece, "Computer Code Poem: The Hacktivist," written in code to reflect Aaron Swartz's identity as a programmer, showcases LoSchiavo's skill with conceptual poetry and her commitment to honoring each individual's world. The biographical notes at the end offer helpful context, and for many readers, they will likely spark curiosity to learn more about the people behind the poems.
Rather than coming across as dark and depressing, the collection encourages reflection, empathy, and awareness. It offers more insight than an obituary ever could, revealing the complexities, pressures, and humanity of those who sought relief in death. This poetry collection is eclectic, respectful, and artistically bold, making for an unusual but meaningful read.