3 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Boomer Rhymes Cuckoo as a Trump Hairdo by Tom Davis is a collection of humorous poems aimed at the Baby Boomer set. A wide range of topics is included, although I found toilet humor and senior citizen issues to be more prevalent. I would describe the subject matter as similar to the random observations comedian Jerry Seinfeld used to make on his TV show. For example, one poem ponders what it would be like if we had three arms instead of two, and another pokes fun at soap opera storylines.
The poetry is written in rhyme, although the scheme is not consistent. Some of the poems follow an AABB scheme, where the first two lines rhyme and the next two lines rhyme. Others have an inconsistent style - in “Mickey Gets Trumped,” the beginning four lines are in an ABBA style, the second stanza has an ABAB scheme, and the poem ends with two rhyming lines. The rhyming words are highlighted in red which I found a little distracting. Also, the phrasing and/or rhythm is sometimes awkward, in order to fit in a word that rhymes or a particular zinger.
It helps to keep an open mind and appreciate inappropriate observations to fully enjoy this quirky book. “TV Recliner” discusses the concept of an all-in-one TV recliner, toilet, and refrigerator. The neighbors complain about the odor and the Health Department intervenes with unusual recommendations. In “Siamese Double Date,” the Siamese twins enjoy dining out with two sisters. Should the restaurant charge the twins for two meals, even though they are sitting in the same chair? Some of the poems relate to issues concerning senior citizens, such as getting a senior discount and the “exercises” of using the TV remote and opening prescription bottles.
The author has a talent for crafting unique concepts. I admit there are some clever quips in this book, but I can’t say the poems are laugh-out-loud funny or very memorable. The title and cover is misleading as only the first poem, “Mickey Gets Trumped,” has anything to do with Donald Trump. In fact, very few of the poems have a political theme. Most of the pieces are short and the point is vague in a few instances.
This book has earned 3 out of 4 stars. Overall it makes for a pleasant, humorous diversion, although you might want to barf from the gross imagery. I would recommend the book to readers who enjoy offbeat poems and irreverent humor. Not all poetry is meant to contain beautiful imagery or intimate feelings from a person’s soul. In this case, it can just be about poking fun at the mundane aspects of life.
******
Boomer rhymes cuckoo as a trump hairdo
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like bookowlie's review? Post a comment saying so!