Move Over Shakespeare: Tales from The Baron by Billy J Barnum
I am a direct descendant of the famous Phineas Taylor Barnum, aka P. T. Barnum, the Greatest Showman on Earth. The reaction of people that have heard or read this poetry is mind-blowing, to say the least. It has been compared to Shakespeare numerous times, which is a huge compliment. It is suggested that everyone, everywhere, should own a copy of this book from literary and English educators as well as high school and college students and anyone who loves to read. Some poems may make you profoundly think, while others may make you sad, some may make you laugh, and some are faith-based. The hope is that every poem you read will inspire and feed your imagination and leave you wanting to read more. Buckle up and get ready for a wild adventure coming. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if just the first poem in the book is turned into a huge Hollywood movie!
Review:
The title Move Over Shakespeare, Tales from the Baron displays a certain je ne sais quoi. Is the poet really comparing himself against the most famous sonnet writer of all times, and who is the Baron? Curious already simply from the title I’m ready to dive in and see what nuggets of truth or inspiration I might find, and to discover how tongue-in-cheek the title might be.
Though the spirit of poetry still enlightens many a poet, the standing in society of this most expression-filled form of communication, seems to be fading into history books. It is a delight, therefore, when a new book of poetry comes before me. I dove into the pages of Billy J Barnum’s book as one thirsty for something fresh, maybe even breathtaking. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder of course, and never is that truer than when reading poetry. I was not disappointed, for this is a bold poet who has opened his heart and mind and laid it before the world to peruse, digest and critique.
In every person and in men particularly, is a desire to be remembered. For what is the point of all the pain, if there’s no gain? No love. No memory to claim. For me this life we live on Earth is but our school-days before going home. Billy reflects on his life. What has he lost or gained? What beauty did he see, what lessons did he learn? More importantly, what can he leave behind? What wisdom can he pass on? For indeed there is a clear intent on forwarding on encouragement to any reader that comes across his poems. My favorite poem is My Hair, which displays the poet’s humorous look at himself.
Billy J Barnum is brave to bare his soul, to reveal his longing to be remembered. I found these poems insightful and reflective, and Billy might be pleased to know they opened my curiosity to know more, dig deeper. Should Shakespeare move over? I’ll leave that to you to decide, but I do believe that Billy has left his mark in time, and that’s what it’s all about after all. Engrossing and thought-provoking Chick Lit Café is pleased to recommend Move Over Shakespeare: Tales from The Baron by Billy J Barnum.
