In Side Steps Terrorizing Sound Bites Part 2: Some Things are Black and White, Amy Jean continues to share the ramifications of repetitive historical missteps in an intense poetic clang. The poems hint at unknown universal truths, including direct indications that we currently do not have the freedom we assume we possess, nor are we privy to view reality. The implied impending euphoria holds the reader hostage, as she or he flips from page to page. You can feel the author's anguish surrounding the greed and jealousy holding humanity back from breaking through to universal liberation: A rapidly approaching future where the oneness depicted in Holy Scripture is a present and universal truth for all. Sincere tantalizing morsels of a gentle and enduring devotion seep sporadically between poems broadcasting profound rage regarding paths endured. You can feel the author's confidence build as she evaluates her worth against the negative feedback and denial she has experienced throughout her tumultuous, synthetic, and isolated existence; An existence she is painstakingly laboring to reconstruct, piece by piece, through intense contemplation. The juxtaposed nature of the work takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotional highs and lows, culminating in a final AMEN. Illustrator, Eric Savage, delivers once again with heartwarming illustrations that poignantly captivate the essence of the words on the page.
FIVE STAR REVIEW By Lesley Jones for Readers’ Favorite
In Western society, we often believe that we have the freedom to choose our own unique beliefs. But are we really free? In this powerful, thought-provoking collection of poems, Side Steps Terrorizing Sound Bites Part 2 by Amy Jean, we are invited to explore how restricted we truly are. Discover how the media, political persuasion, our environment, and others play an integral part in adopting views that can be destructive and negative to our well-being. Uncover the truth behind how we are being manipulated to chase materialism and wealth to boast our 'synthetic existence'. Each poem deals with current issues that affect humanity on a daily basis, social distancing, political persuasion, inequality, discrimination, corruption, and exploitation. Each one placing a stranglehold on humanity and holding us back from becoming our authentic selves.
I absolutely loved this collection. The subject matter, although controversial, is extremely poignant and inspirational. Amy's use of the English language is beautiful and her poems spoke to me on such a deep level. Her work will truly help people step off the treadmill of life and become more aware of their surroundings and the invisible forces holding them back from living an authentic and happy life. The illustrations by Eric Savage complemented her work perfectly, the colors were rich, vibrant, and extremely detailed. The poems that resounded with me the most were The Grind; 'I don’t know why I fall in line, It’s not a life; it’s a daily grind,' and the compelling Done, 'Our ship sailed; we are done.' My absolute favorite, however, was Extinction; 'Our attention focused on false attractions, leaving us lacking affection for the salient things that bring authentic satisfaction.' Side Steps Terrorizing Sound Bites Part 2 by Amy Jean would make a brilliant introduction into a debate on social, emotional, and political issues. A superb, faultless piece of writing.