Review: Of Love and Angels: Poems for My Fiancee by Christian Alexander Barkman
Of Love and Angels: Poems for My Fiancee by Christian Alexander Barkman is reminiscent of the classic love poetry, with a less carnal focus. These poems are love poems of the sould combined, as told by a man much in love with his fiancee. It is clear Barkman’s poetry is influenced by classic poets, as many of these poems employ rhyme to capture readers’ attention to the melding of souls in love.
Do not expect these poems to read exclusively as love letters. They are not. There is a greater spiritual connection between the poet and his subject - love for a fiancee brought to him by God. It is through his faith he is able to express his love, even though he knows it will never equal that of God for her.
The collection is tender in “Your Smile, a Remedy” in which a fiancee’s smile can “cure … all of my woes.” (pg. 7) and in some instances pleading (either with God or his fiancee) to “Help me please,/to learn and love.” (pg. 14). Barkman is learning through his love how to be patient and grow with his relationship. This relationship is through God.
The second half of this collection is focused less overtly on the love with his fiancee, but more on his faith and love for God and what Christianity teaches before returning to “Matrimony” and the excitement of anticipation. Of Love and Angels: Poems for My Fiancee by Christian Alexander Barkman is a lovely tribute to faith and love, but it may not be for those who prefer more secular love poetry.
RATING: Tercet
About the Poet:
Christian Alexander Barkman is a PhD student at The University of Tulsa. His first poetic work, Of Love and Angels: Poems for My Fiancée, was written as a love-gift for his wife in celebration of their engagement. He enjoys writing lyrical poetry but is currently experimenting with more open forms.