Making the truth more real

Through Sun and Shade
By Barbara Chapman-Woods
$10
Send to: Unit 19, St. Andrews Village, Tribe St, Tamworth, NSW 2340
Reviewed by Brandon Astor Jones I think it was Clarence Darrow who once said, "Someday I hope to write a book where the royalties will pay for the copies I give away". Recently, a friend sent me a small book of poetry that she wrote to provide "a link", she said, between her children's/grandchildren's present/future, and her past. After reading Through sun and Shade it became clear that it's appeal could spread far beyond the boundaries of her family. With her permission, I thought I would give readers an opportunity to purchase the book direct from her. It is special, and in need of being shared around the world. The 61 compositions in this work were constructed by the mind, heart and soul of experience and wisdom. I am reminded of T.S. Eliot's profound words of wisdom: "Poetry is not an assertion of truth, but the making of that truth more fully real to us." Several of the photographic images, of an Australia that in many ways is gone but in others is still with us, are nothing short of powerful. It is peppered with 19th century depictions that provoke the reader's 20th century soul. It will not matter how old or young the reader, its truth(s) become all the more poignant as we stand at the threshold of the 21st century. I think the depth of the following three short pieces will whet your poetic appetite. Parent to Child I'd rather be a lead-er
than a drive-r any day.
I'd rather take you by the hand
than merely point the way, I'll learn to walk beside you, Child
— not push you on ahead;
so you can learn to walk with me
not just walk 'as I said' Old Banners A flag may spur
a patriot
to sacrifice and fame Or symbolise, for others,
a nation's greed or shame There are some
who feel protected
and some who bear the scars, On every nation's banner some see stains and some see stars. Viewpoint How harsh the judgements, and how self-assured the men
who watch the runners from the 'Half-Way' sign;
who never see the starting handicap
and from their standpoint view the finish line. Weep not for those they call the 'losers' on this course
(They will be honoured from another place)
Weep for spectators claiming expertise —
the self-styled 'judges' — yet to win their race.