Review

Andrew Lafleche’s MedEvac is an intense and deeply moving poetry collection that leaves a lasting impression. Drawing from personal experiences of combat, loss, and personal struggles, Lafleche takes readers on a harrowing yet profoundly reflective journey. His poetry doesn’t just recount experiences; it immerses you in the raw emotions of those moments, from the chaos of war to the quiet despair of personal loss, offering both pain and glimpses of hope.

One of the strengths of this collection is its brutal honesty. Lafleche doesn’t shy away from the darker corners of his life—whether it’s the toll of combat or the pain of losing a child—and that vulnerability makes his poetry incredibly powerful. His words resonate deeply, encapsulating the cyclical nature of trauma and healing. His ability to weave raw emotion into structured verse is remarkable, creating a collection that is both cathartic and thought-provoking.

The themes in MedEvac—grief, redemption, and self-examination—are universally relatable, even for those who haven’t experienced the extremes of war or personal tragedy. Lafleche’s exploration of faith and its role in navigating pain adds a layer of introspection that lingers long after reading. There’s a spiritual undercurrent that feels neither preachy nor forced, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.

While the collection is undeniably moving, some poems feel more personal than universal, which may make it harder for all readers to fully connect with every piece. That said, Lafleche’s authenticity shines through in every line, and his words have a way of drawing you in, even when the subject matter is heavy.

Overall, MedEvac is a poignant and beautifully written collection that offers a glimpse into the struggles and resilience of the human spirit. Lafleche’s unflinching introspection and masterful use of language make this a must-read for anyone looking for poetry that challenges and heals in equal measure. Four stars for an unforgettable and hauntingly raw work.

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“Eric D. Goodman writes with such a light hand. He sees endearing details in everyday happenstances—playful, erudite, perceptive. Norman Rockwell in words.”
-Hezekiah Scretch, poetry editor, Fleas on the Dog Literary Journal
“Goodman’s reminiscences have a quiet exuberance, like finding a table for two in one’s mind.”
-Kim Gek Lin Short, China Cowboy
“Goodman’s thoughtful explorations of his place in a world nearly out of grasp offer insight into the courage necessary to love a life that’s no longer altogether familiar.”
-Barbara DeCesare, Silent Type
“Faraway Tables carries its readers across boundaries—the personal, the political, and the geopolitical—and into those vital realms of memory and time that recall us to the comfort, the connections, and the love that see us home.”
-Sherry Audette Morrow, Välit
“These poems are condensed journeys reminding us of what shapes us and how each unique ingredient makes a poem of us.”
-Deanna Nikaido, How to Write a Poem
“Faraway Tables is a dazzling collection—a mixture of the mundane and the monumental that travels to marvelous times and places in the world and in the heart, with surprise detonated in many of the poems’ last lines.”
-Toby Devens, My Best Mid-Life Crisis (Yet)

Review

Eric D. Goodman’s Faraway Tables is an exquisite collection of poems that takes the reader on a heartfelt journey through life’s quiet moments, grand explorations, and poignant reflections. I found myself captivated by the depth and clarity with which Goodman crafted his verses, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Goodman’s poetry strikes a perfect balance between introspection and storytelling. Whether he is recounting a vivid travel memory, delving into the bittersweet nostalgia of relationships, or reflecting on universal truths, his words resonate deeply. Poems like “Patience,” which celebrates the everyday ritual of brewing coffee, remind us of the beauty in routine:

“Certainly not our own.
These beans have traveled across four years,
across the globe from Indonesia to our home…”

The collection’s thematic range is remarkable. From the intimate musings of “Embracing Hermithood” to the powerful social commentary in “Toast to Friendship,” each poem invites readers to pause, reflect, and savor the human experience. Goodman’s ability to weave moments of humor, melancholy, and wonder into his work is a testament to his mastery as a poet.

One standout for me was “Moments,” a poem that juxtaposes the mundane grind of daily life with the irreplaceable joy of cherished memories. It’s a reminder that the small, shared moments of love and connection are what truly define us.

“How can I pin down moments,
select them, give them weight,
anchor those greatest hits…”

The imagery in Faraway Tables is as vivid as it is evocative, painting landscapes and emotions that linger long after the final page. The collection is both accessible and profound, making it a perfect companion for seasoned poetry lovers and newcomers alike.

If you’re looking for a collection that feels like a conversation with a wise and witty friend, Faraway Tables will not disappoint. It’s a celebration of life’s many flavours—each poem an invitation to sit at the table and savour the feast. Bravo, Eric D. Goodman, for this literary gem.

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