Saturday, February 18, 2012

Venus in Arms

I recently published my second poetry/philosophy book, Venus in Arms. I personally feel that it contains some of my best works to date as well as my more profound philosophical insights. It is much shorter than the previous one, Salomé: In Every Inch In Every Mile (2011), but my perception has matured in several ways.
 

Venus in Arms was written under times of pressure in my personal life, which I believe influences impenetrable wit and challenging philosophies. At times the book reflects my existentialist views, and it paints a range of psychological emotions warring with the influences of the outside world. We often have things that we feel we must do in order to advance, in order to develop, however peer pressure and social norms push us otherwise. The paradox is the war itself - God uses the battle as a part of our ultimate amelioration. After reading it, I thought about the barriers a man often puts up which prevents his own development. The barrier during self-improvement is not so much that we hate learning, rather we hate being taught. To learn entails that the knowledge was achieved on one's own accord - it feels great - but to be taught often leaves a feeling of inferiority. Thus it takes a bit of determination and a lot of humility in order for one to fully develop. I feel that Venus in Arms is, in a sense, a manifestation of such times in my life.

2 comments:

  1. Sitting at work today, I began to experience a mental and emotional depletion, while reflecting on my environment; a state of opposition but not defeat for over one year. Nonetheless, I decided to peruse the internet for PEACE quotes, instantly some quotes from "Venus in Arms" appeared before my eyes. How profound: the words reached my heart at the instance my brain registered the words.

    I have been intrigued by your expression and dialogue. My heart stings are pulled as I read on and on. Thanks, you have been an Encourager in my reality today, and assisted in fulfilling my appetite for PEACE. Continue to walk in your Calling and WIN.

    Born To WIN,
    Cori Harris

    ReplyDelete
  2. Brother Jami... hopefully you are in peace wherever you are..the art is the best picture and true representation of artist and there is no coming to conscious without pain, the depths of pain mark the height of your happiness.The craft you have manifested needs great depths to enjoy and shear the same experience with u like drinking from the same fountain with different cups.There are few genuine limited souls left which is rapidly growing extinct and you are among one of them.Regardless of the darkness around the world never forget to purge with the light and never stop searching for the best especially the culture and religion.... Have a wonderful life bro....

    ReplyDelete