Awake to Listen

These poems trace the curve of a woman's body through innocence lost, to love found, to love forgotten. The words herein describe a world in which love is a temporary comfort, and the only true solace is ourselves. From themes of violation and violence; to worship, lust, and careful desire, Awake to Listen takes you on a sensual voyage through sex, rot, and sleep. You're never certain if you're meant to be dreaming, waking, or in that in-between space, watching motes of dust float lazily in the sunlight. That is the magic of M. Chastain Flournoy's work. She touches something inside you that is dirty and base without making you feel unholy. Her honest look at her own relationships and mental health, along with her tragic longing to be cared for speak to us all.