Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Diaries of a Borderline by Blue Evergarden is a collection of original poetry, ranging in length, tone, and tenor, each connecting a facet of Evergarden's voice. In Diaries of a Borderline XXIII, she drifts through darkness as monsters steal her joy, but she still glimpses hope and the possibility of light. In What Does “I Love You” Mean, she speaks on a mother’s abuse and the lingering impact on her sense of self. In Voodoo, she traces scars and sacrifices her grace while processing internalized pain. In A Wish She’s Making, she imagines rivers and ponds of dreams, realizing her choices hold power. In Royalty, she tends to abandoned parts and finds ways to care for herself. In Dear Younger Blue IV, she addresses her younger self, acknowledging past pain and asserting presence and protection.
I went into Diaries of a Borderline by Blue Evergarden thinking there were only four parts, but I was delighted to find there are actually nine! The collection is absolutely beautiful, even when the emotions reflect a haunting sadness. As a parent, I found the poems with childhood trauma to be the most heartbreaking, but they are still gorgeous in their rendering. Among dozens of unforgettable works, my favorite is Leaving the Grave Behind and its journey from darkness to light, showing renewal and courage in breathtaking imagery. A close second is Dear Older Blue V and its celebration of self-compassion and the joy of reconnecting with one’s own heart. Evergarden’s work demonstrates the true power of poetry to think, move, inspire, and comfort, leaving us with a sense of the quiet victories and gentle revelations hidden in everyday experience. Very, very highly recommended.