Shades

So when they tell you / to go outside, to explore, / fall in love instead.

Shades is an all-encompassing poetry collection that celebrates the many forms of human emotion. Drawing from her personal experiences, poet Sam Finley shares the most blissful moments of her life as well as the most devastating.

In this book, you will read poems...
Of love: on "catching feels," newfound intimacy, and the meaning of affection.Of loss: on breakups, sexual assault, and lost friendships.Of learning: on coping with change, moving on from heartbreak, and understanding identity.Of life: on the importance of family, friendship, and small moments.
Above all, the poems in this work will inspire you to prioritize your happiness and accept life as it comes. In Finley's own words, "I hope you find something here that helps you see life, love, learning, and loss in all their extraordinary shades." If you're ready to experience the fullness and passion that is inherent to life, this collection is for you.