Immersive and Emotionally Raw: A Review of Anastasia Lindsey’s “OCEAN”
OCEAN
by Anastasia Lindsey
Genre: Poetry
ISBN: 978-1639887057
Print Length: 256 pages
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
A heartbreaking collection of poetry grounded in nature
Anastasia Lindsey’s poetry collection, “OCEAN,” paints a devastatingly real picture of heartbreak, love, loss, and acceptance. Divided into four sections—deep waters, wading, the shore, and sand castles—the collection explores a range of emotions that are intricately woven together. Lindsey skillfully crafts vivid natural scenes in each poem, immersing readers in a world of raw emotion.
Among the multitude of poems in each section, there is one that stands out as a personal favorite:
“I would whisper to the clouds
the things I never told a soul
my secrets must have been heavy to carry
because—
it’s sure raining down on me.”
One of the most captivating aspects of this collection is the inclusion of “lighthouse” pages. These pages, designated as safe havens, provide readers with an opportunity to rest, recalibrate, and breathe. Lindsey’s intention behind these pages is to offer a moment of introspection through journal prompts, breathing exercises, and self-guided meditations. This thoughtful inclusion allows readers to fully absorb the emotions evoked by the poems and engage in self-reflection.
While the timeframe in which the moments captured in “OCEAN” take place is not immediately apparent, it spans years or perhaps months of Lindsey’s life. It is possible that she included every poem she created during this period, which gives the collection purpose but also risks some repetition. Although no single poem exceeds a page or two in length, the sheer number of works included may cause some pieces to feel repetitive. Therefore, it is worth savoring and immersing oneself in each poem before moving on.
“OCEAN” is a truly unique poetry collection that stands out for its vivid imagery and the raw emotions infused into every line. Lindsey’s ability to conjure powerful images creates an immersive reading experience, intensified by the depth of her emotions. The inclusion of lighthouse pages encourages readers to stay present with their own emotions, fostering rest and reflection. Reading this collection as a whole is an enjoyable experience, and one can only hope that Lindsey’s love continues to live on forever in her mind, reaching millions of readers worldwide.
“OCEAN” is an evocative and deeply personal journey through the highs and lows of human emotion. Anastasia Lindsey’s poetic talent shines through her ability to capture the essence of heartbreak, love, and acceptance, making this collection a must-read for poetry enthusiasts and those seeking an emotional and introspective experience.