I loved this book! It’s really funny, expertly crafted, and just an all around great read.

Whenever I read anything of Morley Callaghan’s, I wonder why I don’t read him more. How come I don’t own everything he ever published? Because I love his writing - I love his stories - I love his style. And this book is no exception—Fantastic!

I’m a hopeless insomniac and when I know I’m going to be up all night but still I want to try and soothe my tired mind so I at least feel semi-refreshed in the morning, I lie in bed and read poetry aloud. The rhythms calm and relax me. The act of closing my eyes and pondering each poem helps me to rest without sleeping. This particular book of poetry is great because there are so many layers to peel away and consider . . . and there is the river. The sound of it, the sight of it, the feel of it passing by. Rivers are relaxing. Rivers are complex. The thing I love about poetry in general is the freedom to dip in and sample. You can wear out the pages of this book from so much use and still see something new each time you pick it up. This is a collection I will read again and again. I already have.

Borrowed this book from Stacy, but haven’t started it yet.

Fantastic first collection of poems by this Irish writer living in Canada. I’m enjoying it immensely. Some of these poems are also on his “if it’s words you’re after” CD, which I’m also currently consuming. Stellar performances on the CD all around. I particularly enjoy “Umbilicus” . . . I get choked up every time I listen . . . and yet it makes me giggle. Great stuff!