American Authors Association Book Review

& On the Eighth Day: On Retreat in the Redwoods

Author:  Stephen Damon

Publisher:  Browser Books

Reviewer: W. H. McDonald – President of AAA

Poetry that is a Spiritual and Mental Retreat

I felt peaceful reading Stephen Damon’s small book of poetry called “& On the Eight Day: On Retreat in the Redwoods” and perhaps that was exactly what the poet had intended to invoke from the reader of this prose. It was like taking a walk through the redwoods with some modern day Henry David Thoreau. The poetry captures the essence of a spiritual retreat. It was an escape from the confines of everyday life; truly prose that was beyond the mundane moments of existence.

Damon takes us along with him emotionally and spiritually on a journey that explores the inner life. It is soft like rain but it reminds us of the rivers within that can eventually wear down even huge mountains of delusion and doubt. His poetry is fresh and alive and speaks to the heart of our purpose. This poetry floats within like Zen questions asked in silence.

The American Authors Association gives this book of poetry its high rating of FIVE STARS! It also receives my personal recommendation.

Reviewer: Joe Fabel – AAA Review Board

The subject of poetry can be elusive or obvious, hidden or bold. In all cases, the author must bring the reader to understand and enjoy the presented message through the mechanics employed.

Stephen Damon employs poetry in searching for the essence of life, the core of the inner being. He at times suggests secondary and obvious messages; nevertheless, he returns time and again to the question of what makes man unique and special: the very being, the who of each human.

As happens in all good poetry which instructs, the passage through the stanzas doesn’t complete the intended thought; rather, there is the suggestion that the reader continue by bringing personal experiences and ruminations to bear.

This collection of poems causes the reader to question experiences and to establish where he/she is going and evaluate the means chosen to attain such ends.