Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

The Diary of Madame Rentz by Stephen Kagarise is a collection of poems that explore themes of love, ambition, and societal superficiality. The author drew inspiration from words and phrases from a historic newspaper called The Daily Astorian. The poems delve into the unusual dynamics of marriage and the challenges of domestic life, giving both the husband's and wife’s perspectives on the frustrations and complexities of love and partnership. The book addresses financial management and trade, providing satirical commentary on consumer culture and the fleeting nature of fashion. It also highlights the importance of saving for the future. The poems invite readers to question the nature of success and the costs associated with it, explaining the dark side and the humiliating aspect of ambition in a materialistic society. The poems encourage making meaningful connections and resisting societal pressures in the pursuit of ambition, desire, and personal fulfillment.

Set in the American Northwest during a period marked by rapid societal changes, The Diary of Madame Rentz thoughtfully presents challenges that affected people in that era, highlighting their similarity to modern-day struggles. Poems such as That Poor Unfortunate Wretch delve into the disillusionment of the American Dream, expressing the emptiness often found in the pursuit of wealth and status—a sentiment many in today’s workforce can relate to. The collection features vivid imagery and surprising revelations. I particularly enjoyed the juxtaposition found in many of the poems, contrasting themes such as beauty and deceit, desire and confinement, as well as sweetness and poison. Stephen Kagarise uses unpredictability to make the poems engaging and thought-provoking. Overall, this is a compelling collection that I recommend to anyone who appreciates poetry that addresses the complexities of human existence and societal challenges.