A Little Eruption of Deity: I've Got a Song, Tapestry: A Collection of Inspiring Short Stories, Poetry and Prose [Paperback]

Emerson A. Essex (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 23, 2002

"Tapestry" is a collection of short stories, poetry and prose that illustrates one man's struggle to maintain his individuality and reconnect with his spirituality. It transcends gender, race, etc. Its barebones honesty and sensitivity make it inspiring and entertaining.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: 1st Book Library (December 23, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1403363811
• ISBN-13: 978-1403363817
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,312,733 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Pleasantly surprised by Essex. Modern folk hero?, April 23, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: A Little Eruption of Deity: I've Got a Song, Tapestry: A Collection of Inspiring Short Stories, Poetry and Prose (Paperback)

Despite the author's tendency toward being somewhat overly generous in thanking his many influences, the substance of "Deity" is not sacriced. I thought it excessive at first glance, but it created several genuinely enjoyable conversations with my younger brother, as he was not aware of many of the myriad cultural figures Essex refers to and writes about in this book. That inevitably made me nostalgic and thankful to the many authors to whom I am indebted for making ME aware of people who have influenced and have lasting impact in my own life. The books I voraciously read when I was my brother's age are certainly responsible for my awareness of artists such as Patti Smith, William Burroughs and Hunter Thompson.
Quotes by artists that I admire (Kurt Cobain & John Lennon for example) first drew my attention to this book. I was further intrigued that this author was influenced by such people as Marcus Aurelius and Henry David Thoreau, as well.
Although the poem included that won the 2002 Editor's Choice Award (Red Rose Honeybee Baby) is deservedly recognized, I believe my favorite is the story, "Truth, Love, Hate and Lust; And Other Fanciful Characters." It is a clever allegory in which traits are personified to express, in my opinion, "Prophet"-like wisdom (referring to the work of Kahlil Gibran, whom I adore), without the contrived aid of cliched maxims or heavy-handed parables I find too common in works of this medium.
This book is great in that you can open to any page and be entertained, enlightened and amused. There are so many interesting illustrations and photos that compliment the writing, adding a unique mood to the work.
Being an adamant believer in not censoring oneself to conform to societal morets, I was surprised and delighted that Essex set out, and succeeded in provoking thought for thought's sake, not to sell scandal & controversy.
There is contact info for many respectable organizations in the index. I was impressed to read that Essex donates portion of the proceeds of the book to relevant and worthy causes, such as the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund; RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), founded by musician (and rape victim), Tori Amos and "The Hard Way Every Time Foundation"- which Essex himself founded, an organization dedicated to helping troubled and abused teens. "Deity" serves as a resource referral of sorts for the compassionate AND those in need of some compassion.
This is the first time I've been compelled to write a review online; I found Essex' work refreshing in that it is smartly hopeful and optimistic without preaching in a society that seems so jaded that negativity and apathy are celebrated.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The awesome and unique book I've ever read!, July 17, 2005

By 

KurtCroce "Kurt" (LA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Little Eruption of Deity: I've Got a Song, Tapestry: A Collection of Inspiring Short Stories, Poetry and Prose (Paperback)

What an awesome book! The author did an amazing job of combining politics, philosophy and psychology with common sense into writings that are insightful, entertaining and easy to read. This book is a "must read" for everyone who likes to be challenged in the way the view the world, while seeing glimpses of themselves in another's wisdom, as well those who simply like to be entertained by the written word. Check it out! You won't be disappointed.

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazingly inspiring and insightful, April 20, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: A Little Eruption of Deity: I've Got a Song, Tapestry: A Collection of Inspiring Short Stories, Poetry and Prose (Paperback)

This is the most amazing book I have ever read. The short stories are humorous, but thoughtful and philosophical at the same time. The poems are rather dark and meloncholy but they are very moving and poignant. The author pays tribute to lots of great people in his poetry, including Kurt Cobain and Princess Diana. The poems will really move you to tears and make you think long after you put the book down. The essays are very profound and moving as well, without getting bogged down with wordiness and elusive ideas and language. The author has truly mastered the art of all three genres. He is indeed a master WORDSMITH! This book is so amazing I can't say enough good things about it. But not being a master of words myself,I can't fully describe the uniqueness and brilliance of this book. I can only tell everyone that they should buy this book and read ASAP! They won't be disappointed. They have my word on that.
One final word: READ THE BOOK! You'll be happy you did. And you'll thank me later!