7.2 SkullQuake by Michael E. Duckwall
Breathtakingly brilliant, at times positively chilling. Michael E. Duckwall’s collection, 7.2 SkullQuake serves as both his second poetry collection and an introduction to his art, which is absolutely stunning.
Released through Cajun Mutt Press in February, the work Michael put into the brief 25 pages is evident on every word, and proof that a book does not need to be lengthy to be a powerful read.
Containing eleven poems and artwork (not including the artwork he designed on the cover), it is a dark web of poetic thoughts and musings with accompanying images you could easily find yourself getting lost within.
As far as the art goes, my favorites were the ones accompanying the poems The Distance Between Dirt and Skin, Darkness encased in Darkness, Giving Shape and Roots, with the first two poems listed as two of my favorite poems, as well. I also greatly enjoyed Silence Between Us and Next In Line.
Michael’s work is one of a kind, it shines with vulnerability and a strength that is ever present in his writing, it leaves its marks on your mind and in your heart. I strongly encourage anyone to look him up, read his word, go to the Scottsburg IN open mic he hosts monthly and listen to him read, you won’t regret it. I for one, look forward to many more amazing works in the future.
You can find 7.2 SkullQuake here: https://a.co/d/e8RAd3p
Ramblings of a Recovering Poet by Michael E. Duckwall
Haunting. If there could be a single word to describe the short yet powerful collection of poetry that is Ramblings of a Recovering Poet, it would have to be haunting.
Released in 2023 through Pure Sleeze Press, it is the debut chapbook from Michael E. Duckwall, and it is a true masterpiece. It serves as a snapshot into the mind of someone who fights a daily battle, a darkness all too many of us are familiar with.
It greets you with the first piece The Hesitation, a very real take on the way we’re not always honest with how we’re feeling, and sets the tone for the rest of the book. The words immediately pulls you in and refuses to loosen their hold on you until it’s over.
The best poems in my opinion were both Formation of Words and Pocket Full of Change, the second I found highly relatable. A Red Mona Lisa was also an incredible piece.
With a total of just 43 pages, Michael’s book is short but impactful. It will leave its mark. Michael writes with at times brutal honesty that is raw and leaves a mark, one that will leave you eagerly awaiting his next release.
You can find Ramblings of a Recovering Poet here: https://a.co/d/5mDj1PZ