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An alumni of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, David Marr took an interest in creative writing while deeply saturated in a world of scripts, plays, poetry, and Shakespeare. This expression led to the authoring of screenplays, episodic sitcoms, and Dead in the Heart. Following a relocation to the Bay Area, he began writing, directing, and producing independent film and video projects.
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Written between 1987 and 1994, Dead in the Heart is an emotionally poignant collection of poems by David Marr. These poems cover a variety of themes and topics, as seen from the perspective of a young adult trying to find their place in the world. "My Note" is a moving poem narrated from the point of view of a person who has lost the will to live. The narrator tries to erase the memories of past mistakes and drown their sorrows in "You, Me, and Dry Gin." Relief of the Lonely" is a short poem about enjoying the fleeting moments of joy within solitary periods. In "My Girl Susan," the narrator talks about a childhood crush and reveals why it didn't work out for them. "Letter to Pauly" pays homage to a loved one.
The poems in Dead in the Heart are both introspective and observational. As a reader, you derive a profound sense of melancholia from David Marr's stanzas, which makes for deeply immersive poetic storytelling. The poems in this collection vary a lot -- be it through themes, subject matter, or even style. Many of these poems are very personal and intimate, while others have universal themes the reader can relate to. Yet, others seem abstract and open to the reader's interpretation. The earliest poems speak about helplessness, fear, and yearning for a loved one. Some of the other themes include the changes that come with aging and the notion of beauty that divides people on aesthetic terms. Overall, it's an absorbing poetry collection -- one that gives you a lot to think about. If you're a poetry lover, I highly recommend you grab a copy!
