Star Power

This reader has become accustomed to slim volumes of poetry that only feature a few readable poems. Not this book. The full genius of this poet is on display with astonishing virtuosity and creativity. From the very first poem How To Be A Star, the poet, Nicholas Goodly, reveals his belief in his genius and his mastery of the form. This poem is so very fresh and topical. The poet’s choice of words turns expected phrases back on themselves. Every poem in this volume displays Goodly’s immersion in the culture and the power that it gives him throughout these poems. In these poems, he can become Kim Novak, Eva Marie Saint, or an Olsen twin. He can create a milk-giving wolf with a peacock neck. The voyage through these poems is both disconcerting and fun. Goodly is like Lord Byron on the boat, vomiting while turning a lovely phrase. This is a “goodly” collection to have in your library and is made for rereading.