A review by alphareads
Face Me I Face You by Oyindamola Shoola

funny lighthearted relaxing fast-paced

4.5

 

Face Me I Face You: A Poetry Collection by Oyindamola Shoola

I’ve always had a deep appreciation for intentional poetry—the kind that invites you to dissect and discuss each line. Shoola is a brilliant poet and this shines through in Face Me I Face You, where the structure, literary techniques and styles all come together seamlessly to create an artistic whole. 

The concept behind the collection is fascinating which got me curious about the birth of this collection. After an insightful X Live Space conversation with the author, I gained a clearer understanding of her thought process and the inspiration behind the work.

 Face Me I Face You is a collection of “witty and humorous poems that exist at the intersection of identity, class, and culture”.  Divided into three parts—Palava, Face Me I Face You, and Water and Garri—the collection features about 32 poems, each rich with intention and depth.

I love it when writers experiment and challenge certain stereotypes and what is creatively possible. Hence, what struck me immediately was the unique style. Shoola introduces different characters, something I haven’t (really) seen in a poetry book before. The idea of the “unnamed narrator” is also a brilliant touch which to me, is different from the persona we are used to. (You might argue it is the same but I have my reasons for believing otherwise).

But what truly sets this collection apart is its “Nigerian-ness.” I haven’t read a contemporary collection that so vividly tastes, feels, and smells like Nigeria in a long time. It’s difficult to put into words, but there’s something unmistakably Nigerian about these pieces. The culture, the language…there is just something. 

The artwork accompanying the chapters is equally intentional, bringing the characters, scenes, and themes to life. And of course, the humor throughout the collection is brilliant! 

What I also love about this collection is the fusion of contemporary and traditional poetry styles. Whatever your taste in poetry, you’re bound to find a piece—or two, or three—that resonates with you.

All in all, I highly recommend this collection and can’t wait to see what Shoola comes up with next!