Review of Phone Calls: Love and Money

[Justine Ocsebio]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Phone Calls: Love and Money" by Bela Feketekuty.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Phone Calls: Love and Money by Bela Feketekuty is a long free-verse poem that tells about a love story involving two young professionals who cross paths in an IT training program. Jane is a lead chemical engineer who lives a fairly lavish lifestyle, indulging in expensive jewelry and driving a luxurious Porsche. Bill, on the other hand, earns meager money writing and selling mobile apps. The two go on adventure in New York, but their apparent differences seep through the cracks and threaten their blossoming friendship. 

The story takes the form of a long free-verse poem, taking up the entirety of this short book. My attention is kept from beginning to end owing to the quick pacing of the book. It is bereft of filler lines and verses, as every part of the poem contributes to and pushes the story forward. What I like the most about the book is the author's nuanced approach in showing the conflict. The contrast in the two main characters' economic standing is evident in certain images, such as a Porsche against an old Corolla and a spacious two-bedroom condo against a modest one-bedroom apartment. I applaud the author for making the reading experience vivid through the use of descriptive images. 

However, the book would probably be more resonant to the reader had the author shown more poignant but nuanced emotions among the characters. The lack of emotional depth made it difficult to connect with the characters on a meaningful level, making it hard to fully empathize with their experiences. This aspect made the poem less compelling to me, hence my rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Still, I acknowledge the poem's great flow and the author's storytelling. I recommend Phone Calls: Love and Money to those looking for a quick romantic read. The book has flawless editing without a single error.

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Phone Calls: Love and Money
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