Customer Reviews

Soulgasm

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Soulgasm, a poetic journal in four parts by Alice Parris, begins with the unhappy words: "Everyday I die, kicking, screaming, cursing, alongside my dreams." A woman betrayed, her "cup empty of wine," the author cries out for consolation and love, and she prays. Her prayers seem unanswered. Then come the "winds of change," but Parris is cautious, believing she has "sold her soul to the devil, and there's hell to pay." The pain is deep, psychic.

"Staggering as a drunken man," she searches for meaning in her life. And her suffering transforms her into the fifty-year-old woman she is. It is then-as her life takes on meaning-that she meets her lover of five years. After that, they part, and Parris begins her longing once again. Her poems show riveting sensuality and great spiritual depth. The connection between the two becomes clear. Even so, Parris struggles, as she seeks balance for her life-"My body in subjection to my spirit."-she digs deep into the "spirit well."

Soulgasm is packed with powerful words: Words that shout out loud even as Parris does. In this her first volume of poetry, the poet impresses her reader with simple, crystal-clear imagery. Filled not only with snatches of ethnic pride but also with universal longing, her poems demonstrate an intuitive knowledge and mastery of enjambment: of rhythm, syncopation, and the kind of deep-throated booty-talk at which many black writers excel. With her short lines, sometimes a single word on each, she never wastes a syllable. Her words, autobiographical throughout the book, make her the most vulnerable, when she says, "Poetry has been created from the dust of my soul." Why her soul? Why not her spirit? Well, it is at this juncture that the Christian message becomes strong.

In the two final parts, Parris deals with her shame, realizes her strength, finds the love of her life (her husband), and learns to live in the light of God's love. (...) She has come a long way from "the little girl with no one to care" that she once was. Discovering the meaning of soulgasm, Parris has discovered who she is; and she likes herself, even though she has not yet realized all of her dreams.

I have never read poems with such stark realism and palpable emotion. These aren't the flowery poems that you've read before. They are sultry, aggressive, passionate & intensely thought-provoking. Not for mere entertainment...It is stark reality through the lens of a woman that is a survivor. You can tell from every line that she has endured so many of life's trials. This lends a voice to pain, passion, ecstasy...I would recommend it for adults, only...Put the kids in bed & huddle up next to the one you love, read & discuss each poem in its entirety. You will uncover things about each other that you never knew existed. That is especially valuable, if you're considering marriage, and want to know where your prospective spouse stands on a number of personal issues that don't arise in everyday, casual conversation. It's gripping-expect to be deeply affected. Personally, I am led to continue thanking GOD for what he's done in our lives. Many times it's too hard or inconvenient to confront painful and sensitive issues head-on. This definitely does that & more...

This book is haunting. Alice is a master with words and knows when to end the poem for effect, and what an effect! I grew up loving the book "The Best Loved Poems Of The American People",
so most poetry is a hard act to follow, however this book does. It's a must for every woman to read! I also got a copy of the CD Soulgasm spoken by Alice Parris, set to music it's fabulous!

SOULGASM by Alice Parris is a collection of poetry that speaks to your inner and outer soul. The book cover is beautiful and will instantly catch your attention.

Each poem reflects on something significant about life and emotions. Alice's poetic style is nice, yet incomplete to me because the intensity of some of her selections leaves you hanging. But make no mistake, she speaks in volumes on the soul,love, and emotions.

Several selections stood out to my delight such as "Many Waters," speaking on the rivers of pain in our soul; "The Phoenix," focusing on rising up again and "Two Sides of your Love," depicting the sweet and sour of love. They were very uplifting selections which I truly enjoyed.

Overall, Alice Parris' collection of poems in SOULGASM provides an enjoyable read while curled up in a comfortable chair with a cup of tea. The selections will provide a poetic appreciation with soaring satisfaction.

Reviewed by Kalaani
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

I am only an occasional reader of poetry, but to use the language of the author, I could develop a "craving come calling, demanding some more" of Parris' works. After the initial reading, I came away with a feeling of - 'Now I have it - but then I don't.' Parris' Soulgasm is a fascinating little book of poetic journaling about love, mainly its devastating disappointments. Although the poems are not difficult reading, I found myself drawn, like a magnet, rereading excerpts over and over to savoring the meaning, and finding alternative interpretations. The author chronicles her preoccupation with the prolonged and frustrating journey in the search for a 'true love', with which the reader may identify. Her expressions are powerfully vivid in presenting strong emotions including deep feelings of hurt, rejection, distraught, abuse, ambivalence, revenge, and finally, hope. A sample of a few of these feelings may be reflected in the following paraphrased passages from the poems. Reminiscent of the Flying Dutchman "I know deep in my heart that I may never find love, yet I have been forever doomed to seek it." "The future is perfect but my timing is off and I cannot reach you." "Once a beggar, I will become possessor of all, and you will have to come by me." "I can not let you touch me, lest I feel annihilated and penitent." "Being too young and yet too old," Parris feels hopelessly trapped. "Love too long denied, is like being parched with thirst in the midst of a raging storm that withholds its water." On the other hand, "I float in hope." "Fire of love, torch me until I am consumed." "When one is emerged in oneness, there is no need for words." "I have been a citadel of love, locked up, but when you opened me up, I wept at the way you loved me." Is the author a romantic who is in love with love? Or does she muse about a lack of fulfillment for those who may harbor 'flights of fantasy'? Surely, Parris must have experienced her share of the 'blues' to which she creatively gives poetic voice. It has been a bittersweet experience for even when she has met the 'prince charming', she has been ambivalent, knowing full well that she could not resist and that she had to 'give up' something abhorrent. Parris has a masterful 'way with words' as she bares her soul, nakedly and unashamedly, about her numerous 'trials by fire'.

If ever there was a person who marched solely to the drum beat of their heart and soul, it was my daughter Alice. Tears well in my eyes with love in my heart as I read the poems of her life in her book "Soulgasm".

This book was written in a way that makes one stop and think about what was read. The author has successfully captured the spectrum of human emotion. Excellent use of imagery; an enjoyable book to read.

The author expresses emotions and feelings most of us have, but are afraid to express for ourselves. This book is truly enjoyable and a one of a kind page turner.

This book reflects the many moods most of us share, but are afraid to express. Ms. Parris brings that to life for us in this wonderful collection of poems. It is truly enjoyable. One of a kind!!!

I am a personal friend of Ms. Parris' and as such I feel I can be frank and honest. This book is a perfect reflection of Ms. Parris and her electrifying persona! She is a wonderful individual and her writings will bring joy to the sad, strenghth to the weak and inspiration to those needing a lift!