The French philosopher, Voltaire, noted that “Poetry is the music of the soul, and above all, of great and feeling souls.”

Some people might argue that a poet has the responsibility of stirring emotions within the reader . However, I believe that poet’s first obligation is to him or herself. Introspection is often painful. Fear forces us to keep our feelings guarded. We may not even want to acknowledge our own fears, doubts and mistakes. To listen to what we are feeling becomes a faint echo. To bravely offer a poetic tribute to emotions that is pure and unspoiled is a gift to the author and the reader.

Voltaire was right: “Poetry is the music…of great and feeling souls.”

The Evolution of a Poet by Jennifer Stewart is a beautifully poignant, delightfully lyrical exploration into one woman’s often painful journey through life. Stewart’s poetic genius is rooted in her ability to allow her words to guide us through her journey. She courageously lets us prowl around her brain and gaze into her heart. The end result is our appreciation for a collection of verse that is quiet and reflective, sometimes dark yet willing to embrace light.

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