Kneeling to Kneel

The poetic playground of Neal Samuels offers a world of whimsy and wit. His verses also include amusing and complex characters, who will touch your heart, attract your curiosity, and startle you with unexpected entrances and departures. Sometimes these characters seem simple, but they draw you into deeper reflection where sage truths emerge. In one of his most memorable poems, Samuels tells us, "Beginning is a tricky task." In another, he advises us, "So, if you're still my friend, don't put me in the ground." And ultimately in one of the book's best pieces, he reminds us, "We love the things in others that we can't find in ourselves..." Here is a poet who delights in song, rhythm, and rhyme and who unapologetically doesn't dodge from important, essential parts of our lives. His work resonates on subjects far and wide with specific focus on faith, friendship, love, nature, work, politics, and writing/art. If you've enjoyed the works of Robert Frost, Philip Larkin, Dorothy Parker, or Emily Dickinson, then Kneeling to Kneel will likely merit a spot on your bookshelf beside these and other remarkable poets. Enjoy the wonder.