This book of poetry highlights a version of New York City that most visitors never see. Hiding beneath the tall buildings, tucked discreetly behind the high-end shops on Fifth Avenue, is an urban cityscape that is filled with all of the vices of humankind. A Million and One Stories to Tell is broken into six sections. The first five may sadden, depress and shock you. Gunfire, drugs, death and prostitution are but a few of the ideas explored. Once you hit emotional rock bottom, however, you’ll find a glimmer of hope as you enter the final section, Our Souls Called Change.
Stefon N. Lowman’s prose is consistent and vivid. Some characters are carried forward from one poem to the next, providing a story-like feel to the reading. The dismal urban environment portrayed in the writing lends itself well to the emotive reactions that the poems convey. Even though relatively few words are used to describe many of the characters, as a reader you will feel for them, root for them and possibly even cry over them. The cover art provides an excellent and fitting accompaniment for the book’s contents.
A Million and One Stories to Tell paints a picture of those living in the dark underbelly of America’s most notorious city. Stefon N. Lowman’s poetry will touch the heart of anyone adventurous enough to delve into the depths with him.
