Inside the Invisible

by Daniel Simpson

Genre: Poetry

ISBN: 9798987192764

Print Length: 99 pages

A pleasant collection of great depth and whimsy

Daniel Simpson, a studied organist who holds a Master of Music degree in organ performance, has crafted a captivating collection of poetry titled “Inside the Invisible.” Through his words, Simpson offers curious readers a wealth of depth and perspective. Despite being blind, his disability becomes an indelible part of his perspective without taking center stage, influencing his insightful reflections on various personal and relatable subjects.

Structured into four parts, each comprising between thirteen and eighteen poems, “Inside the Invisible” explores the mundane and the perplexing, delving into a wide range of concepts that resonate on both personal and universal levels. Simpson’s poems find grounding in everyday life, touching on profound experiences such as the loss of a parent in childhood and the heart-wrenching decision of forced euthanasia for a beloved animal. The collection also ventures into more playful realms, examining the contradictions inherent in different notions of living well.

Simpson skillfully navigates the complexities of his faith, reimagining the first sin in the Garden of Eden in “Adam’s Deposition” and contemplating the intersection of practical life and faith in relation to miracles in “Why Shouldn’t I?” This delicate balance between personal experiences and broader conversations is where Simpson’s brilliance shines through. He extracts macrocosmic meaning from seemingly microcosmic situations and vice versa, resulting in thought-provoking discourses that remain accessible and conversational. Even his shortest pieces feel complete yet provocative.

One standout example is the poem “Capital Punishment,” consisting of two stanzas, each with six lines, none exceeding seven words. In its brevity, the poem captures a fleeting moment with remarkable descriptive force, leaving a lasting impact. Simpson’s ability to discern the right moment to conclude a poem is reminiscent of celebrated poets, demonstrating his mastery of the craft.

While poetry is subjective and its resonance varies depending on readers’ backgrounds and experiences, “Inside the Invisible” manages to cater to a wide range of audiences. Simpson’s collection is particularly notable in its representation of disability, offering a refreshing commentary on life experiences that may challenge and reshape readers’ perspectives.

For lovers of poetry, “Inside the Invisible” proves to be a stirring addition to the genre. Its relatability and Simpson’s seamless integration of personal anecdotes with broader conversations, especially regarding religion, death, and heartbreak, result in a fine collection of poems with broad appeal. Delving into the depths of the human experience, Simpson’s work invites readers to contemplate life’s complexities and find solace in its shared moments of vulnerability and resilience.