Plumstuff
written by Rolli
Published by 8th House Publishing
4/5
The opening poem of Plumstuff, “If I ever write a book,” introduces the reader to Rolli’s desire for this collection of poetry and drawings. In it he declares that, should a book he has written be so bland that every critic likes it, then stop him from writing.
Plumstuff is certainly not bland, a work that shows the diversity and depth to Rolli’s talents. At times humorous, and other times soulful in its poignancy, Plumstuff traverses, not only the idiosyncrasies of human emotions and connection, but also the inner doubts carried by writers and poets. There is a sense throughout that Rolli is laying his heart out upon the page–never self-indulgently–inviting personal reflection that naturally comes through the authenticity of another.
Divided into five sections, Plumstuff moves from act to act, a storied journey that is simple in its presentation, and bursting full in its depth.
The opening act is entitled “Literate,” and, as is found throughout the collection, each page feels like a mini adventure for the reader. There is a variety in the layout of each piece providing a welcome unpredictability. A variety of poems stand out, including, “The golden ball,” and “Aunt Gray and Octavious and I,” but my favorite in this first act was “When robots poems compose,” a disturbing look into the possible future of the arts.
Plumstuff then moves into “Philosophical.” As with every new section, Rolli offers his own drawings, wonderful illustrations that help elevate this collection, showing his versatility and creativity. “If it pleases you,” grabbed my attention, a poem of such profound capacity that I had to keep re-reading it; each line speaks of a malady within society, and holds the reader’s attention to certain realities, realities often ignored via distraction. However, Plumstuff never preaches at the reader, rather, it highlights issues, like a lamp that slowly brightens in a dark room.
Part three is called, “Bewitching,” with highlights that include, “Ethics is,” “We,” and “The girl in the umbrella.” Throughout Plumstuff, Rolli wants the reader to reflect upon the challenges of human relationships, and the societies we dwell in, yet sprinkles it with a humor and touch that reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously.
“Epicurean,” is the name of part four, the shortest section. Here Rolli almost pauses. “Epicurean” is the moment after the meal, where wine is quietly sipped, and there is a lull in the conversation, people reflecting, not only upon their evening, but also in terms of identity and self. The poem, “Friday night,” was a personal transportation to another time, enabling an inner meditation.
Plumstuff’s final act is “Fatal,” strongly rounding off the collection. “Pardon the interruption–-but,” was a particular favorite, Rolli using his searing insights, with wonderfully dry humor, to bring everyday common absurdities, often regarded as important, into the critical light.
This is a collection by a writer who has developed his craft well, and we the reader get to savor the delights. “. . .let’s sketch together steps,” Rolli writes, “and crawl to the stars.” Plumstuff will certainly shine for those who read it.
Rolli Website: rollistuff.com
Rolli Twitter: @rolliwrites