A Journal of Australian & International Cultural Reviews, News and Criticism.
The title, Afterlife, works in two ways. The first is as a literal afterlife, the kind many different cultures believe in, the life after death that is a kind of immortality. A number of poems in this collection explore this concept and our human need for reassurance that there will be a life after death.
Nat’s poetry is highly polished, subtle and filmic in its detail. ‘Separation Blues’ is, I believe, Nat’s thirteenth book – and what a gorgeous production it is! Within its pages – which span more than four decades – you will find his characteristic precision and concision; powerful opening lines and dramatic closes; razor-sharp observation; clipped phrases; as well as skillfully painted portraits of people, places and eras.
I’ve been savouring Small Epiphanies over the last few weeks. Savouring is the perfect word because these poems are intricately layered with sensual detail and richly textured.
As Rae Desmond Jones said in his introduction to The Selected Your Friendly Fascist, “Poetry can tend to sombre pomposity, or the self-consciously polite.” Tug Dumbly is certainly not that.
I think this is a marvellous and engrossing publication which so beautifully showcases how the two art forms complement and enhance each other – there haven’t been too many collaborations between differing artists in Australian poetry
As a Scot, who frequently aches to have the cockles of her cold Scottish heart warmed, the poems in Snail Mail Cursive have warmed them in the most primordial of ways.
Here is a book. It is Helen’s book. It is a very good book. When you get one – it will give you delight. And comfort. And gentle chortles. The occasional, necessary, jolt. And sighs of deep pleasure.
David Terelinck’s first book of poetry, Small Epiphanies ( is exactly what the title promises to be: a collection of poems which observes and records daily life. These poems show readers that the examination of the daily is where meaning lies.
Over the years, I have watched Sarah write, perform, slam and create beautiful work. I have watched her win multiple awards, and I have watched as she helped pave the way for many young people to do the same. I’m so proud of all she has done and achieved. And now she has this beautiful collection of poems to add to her growing list of achievements.
Rochford Street Review 