Book of Men

The Book of Men reflects "stories" from her life and relationships. She writes from experiences in a natural voice that anyone can understand. I believe one of the most natural reads for me since I started reading poetry. Her feminine viewpoint is quite insightful to the male viewpoint, understanding what most women can't about the male psyche, even experienced women. The book is not all testosterone driven though. She touches on the vietnam war, pop icons like superman, music icons like Cher and the Beatles, and her mother's dementia (a topic close to my heart with my father). Dorianne allows us to connect with her on an equal playing field as if we've been there and done that too. There is something that everyone can connect to. If you haven't you most certainly will experience some of these normal life experiences that she uniquely shares in a sometimes humorous voice. This is my first time reading poetry from Laux and the first time I didn't feel overwhelmed in trying to understand it's meaning. Does that mean it's superficial? No. It means she writes fluidly and simply but by all means is not simple. I look forward to reading some of her older books. I know, maybe I should have read them in sequence and than again regressing might be quite enjoyable. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you enjoy men! 

-Liz

Inter Nos...

While the knight was on his way

to perform his basic duties in life

the Queen’s thoughts were engulfed by the memories and sensations

imposed on her.

In her world she functioned and performed her duties

as was expected of her

as she was dedicated to doing

out of the love in her heart and the honor she lived by.

For so long she lived without real love

had lost the love of her king

to the dedication of his duties to his realm

ignored and abandoned to be a mere subject, like any other in the castle.

Until one day in the King’s absence

the knight had to report to duty, to the Queen

it was his first time meeting the Queen in person

the minute he laid his eyes upon her, her beauty overwhelmed him.

Their eyes met and locked into a long glance

he thought she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen

she was more than a mere Lady, Princess, and Queen

she was a Goddess, ethereal and heavenly, he knew at that instant that he would love her forever.

The Queen realized through their glance that the knight was special

she knew she would let him into her world

that lacked love, laughter and companionship

with honor in his heart, he treated her with the dignity that she deserved knowing he may never join her pedestal.

They met privately in her chambers to share intimate moments

he passionately loved her and she embraced him with her heart

she opened her mind to what he had to offer

her soul ached to feel the intensity of a deep love for him.

Until one day, the realization of what was came to fruition

she could no longer continue the façade of what could not be

their lives were not in the same place to coincide

she knew in her mind she had to deny herself the passion.

Their private moments together were few but special

the last time they made love they both knew something had changed

they could see it in their eyes and feel it in their hearts

tears ran down their faces and their lips quivered.

Slowly the scene changed from their magical private moments

To her world of solitude and self seeking fulfillment

She would once again find solace, somehow

In herself and her quest for life’s meaning.

As she watched the knight ride on his horse from her tower window

he disappeared further and further into the forest

her heart weighing heavily because she knew the pain to be faced

with the last traces of his kiss on her lips.

She knew how empty his cup had been; hers had been as empty too

she knew he was special, he would think otherwise

she gave herself to him; he took that with him, just as she kept him

And, her world would never be the same.