Likeness of Being

Nathan M. Richardson
Spiritual Concepts Publishing (2007)
ISBN 0976584204
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (3/07)

When I first read about “Likeness of Being” after it was submitted for review it immediately started talking to me and now I know why.  This is more than a book of poetry, this is a book that resonates with the soul on a deep level:

“Weapons of Mass Destruction
…
But girl you better wake up
and take a real look at your reflection
And boy you better wise up and learn
the real cause of your destruction.

“Andrew”
…
But we must keep trying
and I need to let you know
There is no way we can
convince them of anything
until we ourselves believe
that Ezekiel saw the wheel.

“Likeness of Being” covers all facets of life; family, faith, music, nature, love.  With the book comes an audio CD of 17 poems performed by Richardson himself.  His voice is extremely meditative.  I found some of the poems and read along with him.  For others I just closed my eyes and listened, reflecting on my own life.  Richardson sings “Nobody Knows” with a voice that is most contemplative.  With my eyes closed I was able to imagine the workers in the cotton fields, singing and moving in unison.

Richardson is very talented and brings the reader to a place of questioning, yet, at the same time a place of serenity in “Likeness of Being.” Thoughts and emotions are stirred, issues are evoked, and deeper faith instilled.  Only a gifted writer, which is emotionally invested in the writing, can convey all the messages at the same time in one poem. Richardson is this gifted writer.

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