Current Reads - Poetry by Trista Mateer

After diving deep into Trista Mateer's 'Made Me Do It' series, I've been thinking a lot about how powerfully poetry can speak to us. It's not always about finding a single 'right' answer to "what's the theme?", but more about what resonates with *you*. When I read poetry, especially something as layered as Mateer's work with Aphrodite, Artemis, and Persephone, I find it really helpful to embrace a few strategies. First, I don't pressure myself to understand every single line immediately. Sometimes, it's about letting the words wash over you, listening to the rhythm and the feeling they evoke. Think of it like listening to a new song – you might not catch every lyric on the first listen, but you get the vibe. To truly grasp the theme, I usually read a poem several times. On the first read, I just let the language flow. On the second, I start highlighting words or phrases that stand out, or that seem to repeat. Are there specific images, colors (like those mentioned in the OCR for the book covers!), or mythological figures that keep appearing? For instance, in Mateer's books, the recurring goddesses aren't just characters; they're archetypes that represent broader themes of love, protection, grief, and womanhood. Then, I ask myself: How does this poem make me feel? What larger idea or emotion is the poet exploring? Is it about resilience in the face of a "brutal history," as one of the OCR snippets from 'Artemis Made Me Do It' suggests? Is it about the complexities of "mother/daughter relationships" from 'Persephone Made Me Do It'? Often, the theme isn't stated directly; it's woven into the fabric of the poem through its metaphors, symbols, and even the poet's choices of characters. It's about finding the underlying message the poet is trying to convey about life, humanity, or the world. Poetry is also incredible for exploring 'emotional poems with deep meaning.' Whether it's the raw honesty in Trista Mateer's discussions of "feminine rage" and "unlearning prettiness" or the timeless wisdom in Rumi's reflections on life and faith, poetry offers a unique space for profound emotional and philosophical exploration. These poems often resonate because they tap into universal experiences of joy, sorrow, love, and struggle. They offer 'light and hope' not always by presenting easy answers, but by acknowledging the depth of human experience and offering a sense of shared understanding. I've learned that engaging with poetry is a very personal journey. It's about bringing your own experiences and perspectives to the text, and allowing the words to spark reflection within you. It's not about being a literary expert, but about being open to connection and meaning. So, if you're looking for poetry that truly makes you think and feel, I highly recommend exploring poets who delve into these personal and universal themes. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself and the world.