Customer Reviews

Red Earth: Poems of New Mexico

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This books artfully portrays the beauty and unique culture of New Mexico. The combination of Alice Corbin's poetry with stunning photos and artwork reach deep inside. Her style is easy to read and understand yet leave the reader "as these white bones washed clean and bare by the sun..." For me it was a haunting reminder of my all-too-short visit to New Mexico as I wandered through the desert visiting grounds made sacred by Indians, Catholics, and nature itself. As I read the book I could almost feel myself back in the silence with only the ghost echo of Indian drums. Anyone who has ever fallen in love with the wonder that is New Mexico will enjoy this book.

The book starts out quoting Tony Hillerman, an author who really reflects New Mexico, stating that that "something about New Mexico not only at attracts creative people but stimulates their creativity". The poems of this book seem to pull from and involve communities from throughout the state. The pictures follow the same approach and reflect a wide diversity. The book is well done. It tells and shows how the poet Alice Corbin became part of New Mexico and her work really does reflect what she found there. Some of her poems seem to take on the style of the Indian songs and Hispanic ballads. You are left seeing first hand how her creativity was stimulated.

Alice Corbin has captured the true spirit of New Mexico in her prose. While the writings may seem dark with many references about death, one must realize that life in early New Mexico was very difficult, and spiritual reverence was one way those living in this harsh environment dealt with life. I don't know if those unfamiliar with New Mexico and its past will enjoy this book; however, those who ARE familiar and have experienced this breathtakingly beautiful and spiritual land and its people certainly will!