A Bright Wound

<p>How does a daughter forge her own life in a situation fraught with loss grief and the weight of her mother's expectations? Sarah A. Etlinger's re-telling of the myth of Persephone and Demeter is coupled with poems about everyday experiences related to motherhood aging parents and grief. Themes and symbols associated with Judaism-the pomegranate the seasonal rituals the matrilineal culture-play a crucial role as Etlinger explores the interconnectedness of these two ancient cultures. Poems about modern-day life parallel the themes of loss and the unexpected jewels that can come from grief: forgiveness self-awareness and a more deeply-rooted connection.  </p>