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Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet, Lauren Scott, and a review

Posted: November 13, 2021 | Author: | Filed under: Uncategorized |68 Comments

Today, I am delighted to introduce poet and blogger, Lauren Scott. I met Lauren recently through another blogging friend and I am delighted by her beautiful poetry and posts about hiking adventures with her husband.

Take it away, Lauren.

Which of your own poems is your favorite?

I narrowed it down to two favorites: “Simple Existence” and “To My Babies.”

Simple Existence

I stare at this page, milk white as the

blanketed ground in winter’s staging.

Where are the syllables?

***

I fear they have flown to faraway places,

across desert dunes and boundless oceans

and might not return so that I may tell him

(again) how irreplaceable he is.

***

Instead, I’ll touch his lips with mine

and steady myself in the arms of a man

who is satisfied with my simple existence.

To My Babies

You are a new bloom in our family garden,

too little to understand the deepest emotions.

Cradled in my warmth, I watch your tiny lips

form a smile, so unaware of reality’s sharp edges.

Your laugh, my melody. Your cries, my lament.

I am your buffer, guarding you from shadows.

I delight in each change as you evolve into your true self.

For all tomorrows, you will be in my heart

as time prepares you to fly, to realize your own life

What inspired you to write these particular poems?

My husband and I have been married for almost 33 years. He is literally my best friend, so our relationship has provided an abundance of writing inspiration. “Simple Existence” is a favorite because it exemplifies my absolute love for him, as well as his unconditional love for me that harbors no expectations to change me in any way. I can’t ask for anything more. After two years of marriage, we began to grow our family.

Our daughter was born first, and our son was born three years later. Becoming a mother was another euphoric experience. I wrote “To My Babies” when our children were infants, and even though they’re now adults, they are my life as much as my husband is. My words in this poem aren’t meant to be complex, but it is their depth and my emotions that I strive to underscore, sentiments only a parent will understand. Family is beyond precious to me, and therefore, the words flow effortlessly.

Which genre of poetry do you enjoy writing the most and why?

I enjoy writing Free Verse the most because there are no restrictions or rules. I simply let the words fall and arrange to my liking.

Which genre of poetry do you enjoy reading the most?

Free Verse is also my favorite genre of poetry to read, but I aspire to learn from reading other forms, as well.

What is your favorite poem?

Mary Oliver is one of my favorite poets, and “Storage” is a poem that stands out no matter how often I flip through the pages of her book, Felicity. This poem continuously delivers the same effect, resonating with me as I grow older. “Things” just don’t matter. Family matters. Friends matter. The relationships in my life are what I hold close to my heart. And making room in our hearts for more Love and reveling in Nature’s gifts, well, what could be worth more?

Storage

When I moved from one house to another

there were many things I had no room

for. What does one do? I rented a storage

space. And filled it. Years passed.

Occasionally I went there and looked in,

but nothing happened, not a single

twinge of the heart.

As I grew older the things I cared

about grew fewer, but were more

important. So one day I undid the lock

and called the trash man. He took

everything.

I felt like the little donkey when

his burden is finally lifted. Things!

Burn them, burn them! Make a beautiful

fire! More room in your heart for love,

for the trees! For the birds who own

nothing – the reason they can fly.

More than coffee: Memories in verse and prose by Lauren Scott

My review

This lovely book is a mix of a memoir about the author/poet’s life with some beautiful freestyle poems included after each prose section to enhance the emotion and moments shared. The memoirs are relatable and cover delightful memories of family brought back through inherited items and stories shared by family members as well as the author’s own life experiences including achievements, romance, parental love, and overcoming fears. The author’s personality and humour comes through strongly in her writing and poetry, as well as her joy and pleasure in the simple things in life.

My favourite poem in this collection and the one that summarised for me the spirit and essence of this book is Fulfilled.

Fulfilled

Let me drink from the gaze in your eyes
Eyes that have me wildly mesmerized
Mesmerized under their vivid piercing spell
Spell which only you many cast over me
Me, with a heart madly in love
Love, a whirlwind of euphoric emotions so true
True in not only our hearts, but in our minds
Minds, fully aware of their endless thoughts
Thoughts so amorous of us entwined
Entwined in each other’s arms eternally,
Eternally, still to few seconds for our time together.

I recommend this book to people who enjoy basking in the bright rays of happiness in life.

Purchase More than Coffee: Memories in verse and prose

Amazon US

About Lauren Scott

Lauren is a writer of poetry and short memoirs who lives in Northern California with her husband of almost thirty-three years, Matthew, and their energetic canine, Copper; they have two grown children. She has authored two collections of poetry: New Day, New Dreams and Finding a Balance. Her recent book, More than Coffee, a memoir in verse and prose, was published in September of this year. This collection of poems and stories paints a picture of young dreams and fears from the early woes of childhood and teen years into adulthood where these dreams and fears transform.

Her writing projects are sometimes serious – drawn from painful subjects and raw emotions – or they spotlight her silly side – pulled from humorous moments captured in photographs. Lauren is inspired to write from her love of nature and the marvelous wild world that surrounds her: the smell of the woods, the sound of a babbling brook, and the chorus of birds singing. Recent backpacking trips with her husband along the California coast and Sierra Nevada mountains have stirred up thoughts to pen about love, lost friendship, family, and the possibility that anything can happen. Hikes along the Paper Mill Creek remind her that life is fragile. From trout hatchlings to swallowtail butterflies, Lauren marvels at how the world is interconnected and every living thing matters. She hopes her readers will find a little nugget of delight, comfort, or understanding in her poetry and stories – some detail that resonates with them beyond her words.

Find Lauren Scot

baydreamerwrites.com
Lauren Scott Amazon Author page

About Robbie Cheadle

IMG_9902

Robbie Cheadle is a South African children’s author and poet with 9 children’s books and 2 poetry books.

The 7 Sir Chocolate children’s picture books, co-authored by Robbie and Michael Cheadle, are written in sweet, short rhymes which are easy for young children to follow and are illustrated with pictures of delicious cakes and cake decorations. Each book also includes simple recipes or biscuit art directions which children can make under adult supervision.

Robbie has also published 2 books for older children which incorporate recipes that are relevant to the storylines.

Robbie has 2 adult novels in the paranormal historical and supernatural fantasy genres published under the name Roberta Eaton Cheadle. She also has short stories in the horror and paranormal genre and poems included in several anthologies.

Robbie writes a monthly series for https://writingtoberead.com called Growing Bookworms. This series discusses different topics relating to the benefits of reading to children.

Robbie has a blog, https://robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com/ where she shares book reviews, recipes, author interviews, and poetry.

Find Robbie Cheadle

Blog: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/

Blog: robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com

Twitter: BakeandWrite

Instagram: Robbie Cheadle – Instagram

Facebook: Sir Chocolate Books

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68 Comments on “Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet, Lauren Scott, and a review”

  1. Annika Perry says:
    November 13, 2021 at 12:34 am

    A lovely interview with Lauren and insightful share and review of her book!

    Lauren, warmth and love of your family shines through the two wonderful poems you’ve shared here and ‘To My Babies’ is one that touches me deeply and to which I can relate fully. Superb!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  2. robbiesinspiration says:
    November 13, 2021 at 1:08 am

    Reblogged this on Robbie's inspiration and commented:

    Today, I am delighted to feature poet and blogger, Lauren Scott, as my Treasuring Poetry guest. Lauren has recently published a delightful book, More than Coffee, Memories in Verse and Prose and I have shared my review. Thank you for hosting us, Kaye Lynne Booth.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  3. Liz Gauffreau says:
    November 13, 2021 at 5:10 am

    I enjoyed your introduction to Lauren and her poetry. I particularly like “Simple Existence.”

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  4. Jill Weatherholt says:
    November 13, 2021 at 5:17 am

    It’s great to see Lauren here. Thanks for sharing your lovely review, Robbie.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  5. Baydreamer says:
    November 13, 2021 at 7:05 am

    Hi Robbie, thank you so much for featuring me and for writing your beautiful review. I’m honored and truly touched by your words and so grateful you enjoyed my book. ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  6. Baydreamer says:
    November 13, 2021 at 7:47 am

    Reblogged this on Baydreamer and commented:
    I am honored to be a guest on Robbie Cheadle’s blog, Writing to be Read, and to have received such a beautiful review of my book, More than Coffee…

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  7. balroop2013 says:
    November 13, 2021 at 9:31 am

    It’s lovely to see Lauren here! I’ve always admired her poetry and her connection with Mother Nature. Thank you ladies for sharing beautiful poems, that Mary Oliver’s poem spoke to me. Robbie’s review sums up this post so well.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    • robbiesinspiration says:
      November 13, 2021 at 10:44 am

      Hi Balroop, thank you for visiting and adding your thoughts about Lauren’s wonderful poetry.

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply
    • Baydreamer says:
      November 13, 2021 at 3:08 pm

      Thanks so much for your wonderful words, Balroop. You have been a great blogging friend and supporter, and I feel the same about your poetry. I am so grateful to be a guest on Robbie’s blog, as well. And her lovely review made my day! I’m also glad you liked Mary Oliver’s poem, “Storage.” She has so many wonderful poems that resonate with me. Thanks again! 🤗❤️

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply
  8. gabychops says:
    November 13, 2021 at 9:33 am

    Beautiful poetry, Lauren!

    Joanna

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  9. Annette Rochelle Aben says:
    November 13, 2021 at 10:11 am

    Lovely to meet Lauren here. Her poems gave me a smile and I also enjoyed the Mary Oliver piece. Robbie, thank you also for bringing More Than Coffee to my attention.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  10. memadtwo says:
    November 13, 2021 at 10:12 am

    It’s good to see a memoir about a full and happy life. Love is indeed a blessing we should never take for granted. (K)

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  11. Resa says:
    November 13, 2021 at 1:39 pm

    It’s a sweet heartfelt experience,when reading this book. I shall review it, anon!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  12. ellenbest24 says:
    November 14, 2021 at 6:40 am

    Oh Lauren what a smashing post/interview. I too enjoy crafting some free or freestyle verse. I also love your choices Robbiefinds some great people to question/interrogate😁 and you are a gem and I can not wait to read more.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  13. Jacqui Murray says:
    November 14, 2021 at 7:47 am

    What lovely poems. And your life bears them out. How precious that after 32 years, your husband is still your best friend. That unconditional support is so rare.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  14. D. Wallace Peach says:
    November 14, 2021 at 11:07 am

    Such beautiful poetry in this post. Lauren’s poetry is touching, personal and yet relatable. And I’m not surprised Mary Oliver is one of Lauren’s favorites. Great review, Robbie. Congrats to Lauren and thanks to Kaye Lynne for hosting. 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  15. Jim Borden says:
    November 14, 2021 at 1:45 pm

    wonderful poems and review; and who enjoy doesn’t basking in the bright rays of happiness in life? 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  16. dgkaye says:
    November 14, 2021 at 6:41 pm

    So lovely to see Lauren and her gorgeous poetry featured here today Robbie. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot of free verse poetry. I’ve been so used to jumping into poetry challenges with specific forms, I’m feeling the urge to write some poetry in free verse style in future. Congrats again to Lauren. Hugs to both ❤

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  17. olganm says:
    November 23, 2021 at 12:14 pm

    Great review, Robbie, and what a great interview with Lauren. I enjoyed all the poems and they all feel very close and personal. Good luck to Lauren.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

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