A review by mariannemersereau
Tangled in Vow & Beseech by Jill McCabe Johnson

5.0

How to tell the poem from the poet? Reading Jill McCabe Johnson's moving collection, "Tangled in Vow & Beseech" leaves one feeling as if she is a best friend with whom you've just had a deep, revealing, enlightening and inspiring conversation. The book is one that "beseeches" you to read it a second time, and perhaps a third, as a way of extending the conversation. Striking images from the natural world are woven throughout and provide a kind of solace as McCabe Johnson wades bravely into difficult subjects of environmental, societal and personal losses. The owl image on the cover is beautifully reflected in the poem, "On the Anniversary of the First Time We Kissed" which contains the title phrase. There is also humor in the collection. "Euphoric Chicken Glitter" is sure to prompt a giggle as it tells the story of a funny scene in a grocery store. It is easy to find oneself "tangled" in delight by the depth and breadth of these stunning poems.