Art of Insomnia

There occurs an uprooting writes Peter A. in Helenium One and Only a poem from his deeply moving collection Art of Insomnia and this line epitomises the books theme - the sudden absence of a much-loved wife lost suddenly and tragically. The music of this grieving collection is various - sometimes staccato stark and direct (I have to escape / the persistence of kindness) sometimes fluid and unfurling long single stanzas rushing down the page other times nakedly confessional or poignantly self-critical (Some people think youre better/ than you actually are) and other times spare and with careful end rhyme (Though in moments still/quiet teardrops spill). An orchestral collection of many parts it is enriching in its diversity a sustained song of grief which is compelling and affecting.Art of Insomnia is a moving conversation with a loved wife and more broadly with anyone who has suffered a loss. It is a eulogy for that which is lost and yet equally a brave celebration of the solaces to be found in life - friendship community and as this vital and potent collection proves in poetry itself.- Anna Saunders - author of Burne Jones and the Fox Ghosting for Beginners and Feverfew (Indigo Dreams)