Symmetry

By Marc J. Straus

Book Overview

In this second book of poems, oncologist Marc J. Straus addresses the hopes and the tragedies of his profession. The work is a commentary on his experience in the medical field and a collection of rich, vivid monologues written from the points of view of both doctor and patient. These poems show a rare sensitivity not only to those who are suffering but also to the details that distinguish each life.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0810150972
• ISBN13: 9780810150973
• Release Date: April 2000
• Publisher: Triquarterly Books
• Length: 57 Pages
• Weight: 0.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.7" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Heartrendingly beautiful work

Review of Marc Straus's Symmetry:Above all, poet Marc Straus is astoryteller. He is a keen observer of the human condition, especiallyin times of vulnerability and illness which he is privy to in hiscareer as a physician. He listens with a poetic sensibility to whathis patients aren't quite saying out loud and says it for them: fearsof disfigurament and death and hope against hope up to the end. Aswhen after a death in the hospital of a patient, he remarks of thenurses..."They've seen it before, but death fills their shoes."He also remembers his childhood and recreates images that sing oflife's poignant moments: saying of a photograph he took of hisdaughter at two..."Her eyes were dark and translucent as sorrelagates, and her chin tilted forward as if to contest the axix of theearth.". Best of all, these poems are accessible and elegant at thesame time. A fitting successor to Straus' first book of poetry "OneWord".

Journey Into the Heart

Dr. Straus' book is a journey into the heart of another human being. A deeply personal and bravely revealing look into the life of the author and his patients. This compilation is compelling, articulate and magical, yet accessible to even those who have never read a poem. There is something in here that everyone can relate to. I can't wait for the next book. Marc Straus just keeps getting better and better.

Healing Through Poetry

Dr. Straus' poetry is unrivaled - his style is unique and capturing, and he will certainly become known as one of the best poets of our time. We get a peak inside his private life as he relays not only trying times with patients he tries to save but also into his own difficult times and haunted memories. My wife and I have read his book several times - it only becomes more potent and touching. We await future collections.