Review of Riddle Field

[LinaMueller]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Riddle Field" by Derek Thomas Dew.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Riddle Field by Derek Thomas Dew is a set of 51 "avant-garde" poems addressing heavy and dramatic themes. For those who don't know, "Avant-guard" means poetry (or another artistic genre) that defies convention. After all, what is innovative about this book? After so many millennia, it isn't easy to be innovative in terms of grammatical structure. What I found innovative was the way he dealt with the topics discussed.

First and foremost, the author addresses the effects of the destruction of a dam on the inhabitants of a small American town. Past events that occurred at the place are described, and even the perspective of different animals appears several times. Another theme discussed is the post-traumatic stress disorder (though not mentioned in psychological terms) of someone who has been sexually abused. Such a heavy theme has been dealt with classy and, in many ways, indirectly. One of the most important features of this set of poems is that it has no linearity. The issues interconnect, and if in one verse the author is talking about the imminent destruction of the dam, in the other, he may be talking about the curves of Adrienne Barbeau.

My favorite aspect of the book is that the author's chaotic and surreal style fits incredibly well with the message of the poems. Various animals are mentioned in the most different verses. In one of the poems about the dam's destruction, the author says that a "cow went into labor." It shows incredibly well how nature is indifferent to the disasters caused by men. It also highlights the absurdity of a world where technology is not used for the good of humanity and various ecosystems but, unfortunately, to the economic interests of a privileged few.

I had to postpone completing this review because I read the book more than once. This fact could indicate that the poems are not easy to understand in their entirety. In some internet reviews, I noticed that several users complained, saying that the author should make an introduction explaining the events in his life that motivated him to write these poems. Some might see it that way, but the reality is that poetry is very different from historical fiction or any other genre. There is no right or wrong interpretation, and neither should the author explain what a particular verse means. By way of example, the author may have written several poems as a form of purgation of emotions (catharsis). I, on the other hand, can interpret a poem in another way. That's the natural beauty of poetry, and for that reason, I'm afraid I have to disagree with the mentioned users. Thus, I found nothing negative to say.

All in all, I rate Riddle Field four out of four stars. It is a collection of dramatic/surrealist poems that address heavy themes with intelligence and class. I didn't find anything negative to mention, so the score is self-explanatory. There are no grammatical errors. While many may find the author's style confusing and challenging to understand, I ended up finding it a perfect way to express emotions. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys avant-garde poetry. People who don't like poetry or who like more traditional styles of poetry should avoid this book.

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Riddle Field
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[Kavita Shah]

Avant-garde is a new term for me. Everyone's interpretation of the poems is different and it is entirely up to the author to share what he wishes. I like that the themes are connected.
Thank you for a great review!

[angelap5467]

I adore this type of writing that overcomes the subject in such a gracious way. Loved your review.

[Victor Kilyungi]

Defiant poetry indeed.
This ought to be worth the read. I like poetry and I'm curious to know what this poet has in store for us. Thank you for such a detailed review.

[Meera Dandekar]

This definitely feels like a worthy read. I’m not usually a fan of poetry but the review does make it sound appealing.

[Laura Ungureanu]

This seems like a unique poetry book. Even if the poems might be hard to understand, I would still like to give this book a chance. Thanks for a wonderful review!

[sunny4life]

I like this review. the writer expresses some opinions that I also happen to share. For instance, I have to agree that poems, like other forms of art ought to be left as abstracts, open to the interpretation of the reader. Great review!

[Khushboo Barwar]

I agree with you that some parts of poetry should be left unexplained. We interpret those parts on our own experiences, good or bad. Isn’t that the beauty of it? Thanks for the review. I would definitely check it out.

[the_ashfeathers]

This feels like a must-read. I love poetry, and deviating from the conventional is my elixir. Thanks for the review!

[IamJc_Bembo12]

Comprehending a subtle line of poetry for me is enjoyable yet mind nerving. Reading poetry has always been my favorite hobby. Thanks for this honest and explicit review! I should definitely give this a go.

[ViviVivid]

I learned something new about poetry. Avant- guard poetry. I would love to read this one. And technology is indeed being used for the economic interests of a privileged few. At least a major portion of the time. Great review!