Readers and writers approach the written word in various ways. Some prefer to consume highly complex fictional journeys, while others enjoy shorter pieces. And there are unlimited ways for readers and writers to find connections, in whatever format is most suitable. When it comes to poetry, the possibilities seem even more endless. Clumsy Beauty by J. K. Kennedy is a collection of short poems that explores the many ways that one may find beauty in our complicated world, in each other, and in themselves.
Poetry is a fantastic way to explore themes and emotions in few words. Described as “Poems for hearing the ‘I love you’ in everything”, the poems offer an insight into how the author views themselves and the world they live in. She explores complex emotions and mental processes such as self-reflection, distractions from ourselves, layers of anger, intrusive thoughts, relationships with others, alternate love stories, how we hold ourselves back, and so much more.
Kennedy definitely got me thinking and reconsidering my own outlook on life in Clumsy Beauty. Each poem was short and sweet, yet poignant and insightful. A few of them resonated with me in the sense that I could consider an alternative way to look at my experiences, while reminding me that these thoughts and feelings are so common among human beings. I highly recommend that readers keep this collection close by for whenever they might need a reminder to find beauty in everything.
