Fire Voices

<p>The poems in this unique illustrated collection reflect spiritual seeking and echoes of life's challenges and tragedies. Written in free verse the poems focus on seeking the Divine observing nature and expressing hope. As such they are unconventional expressions of human encounters observations of the natural world and testaments to the process of spiritual maturation. <em>Fire Voices</em> challenges readers to explore their ever-expanding interior and exterior horizons.</p><p><br></p><p><em>Fire Voices</em> illuminates the interconnectedness of the human experience. The content of Clark's poetry is easily relatable. Each poem allows readers a wide reach into their ears heart soul and toes. I am particularly struck by Clark's visceral imagery and cunning use of sound and cadence to engage the senses. I am taken on an imaginative journey that is satisfying whether it be: thrilling uncomfortable funny joyous macabre deeply sad uplifting questioning. <em>Fire Voices</em> is a wonderful collection of poems. I offer a caution to the discerning reader; you will be moved by the emotional power these poems tender. --- Amber C. McPhail B.A. Earlham College 1998 Chatham New York</p><p><br></p><p>Occasional poetic thoughts may occur to any of us when something truly strikes a chord in us but few of us have the focus and skill to craft that thought into a coherent word song of a poem. Sheldon Clark has that disciplined focus and skill to make his insights accessible to us and we are the better for taking time to reflect on his poems. May his poems reach a wide audience willing to savor these little gems. ---Susan I. Swanton AB Harvard 1963 MLS Columbia University 1965; Retired Library Director Rochester New York 1965-2003</p><p><br></p><p>Sheldon Clark's latest work operates magnificently on two levels --- one the intimate reality of love and loss the other the wisdom of spiritual maturity and acceptance. Clark asks the reader to join him in bringing these threads together to experience the loss that comes from endings yet revere the magnificence of life and connection. Ultimately with his characteristic deliberate language and astute allusions Clark suggests there is hope to be found in the divine in nature in God and in quiet contemplation. ---Sarah Woodside Ph.D. Boston University 2016 Associate Professor Northeastern University</p>