Title: Common Preludes
Author: Edward Barrett
Publisher: The Groundwater Press, Hudson, New York

Ed Barrett's stunningly lucid meditations remind us that writing can be a way of making a place for the soul to dwell in. These "common preludes" have all the ingredients needed to return us to ourselves refreshed and gladdened, as if we had taken a walk on the first day that winter gives way, and we could actually perceive the light pouring back into the world like a great intimate secret we had always wanted to know. Candid, intelligent, subtle, and generous, these poems equip us for the mystery and joy of being there together. And are cause to celebrate that Ed Barrett is one of us, a blessing disguised.

Ann Lauterbach