Poetry As You Like It

A poem is an art form that provides a unique manner in which to express one’s emotions or to tell a story. This collection of poems, Poetry As You Like It, masterfully portrays numerous artistic themes found in within the human existence. It is not another boring book of poems similar to required reading for high school English, nor the predictable nursery rhymes of early childhood. William Gay paints pictures describing the perils of love and romance, the gloriousness of beauty, and the wonder of nature. He then transitions to the concepts of family, the meaningless of life without love, and the trials and tribulations of finding joy in fleeting moments.

In addition, faith is acknowledged to be part of man’s everyday nourishment in life. Messages of listening to your faith illustrate to readers they must remain aware of the beauty in life and living in God’s image. Gay then provides a lighter humorous look at life as he debates on the actions of the young versus the old, the art of wooing, and the rollercoaster of emotions that life brings. A more serious tone is introduced as he ponders more intellectual thoughts, such as the evolution of man, the building of civilizations, and the actions of man in life. The final four historical selections focus attention on the epic adventures of man throughout history. The last poem in this collection gives direction for future generations, who should always be striving for the good of all mankind.