From making honey to what's at the bottom of a glass of Shiraz, Kathy Kubik explores how easily the heart can be shattered and then put back together. The Secret of Ivory Vows is examines the themes of love, lust and loss. Kubik’s choice of words and conveyed images trap and subtly seduce the reader.
Excerpt
"A shape forms in front of the window,
a jerking torso
going, leaving -
imagined.
I see tongue on glass,
the gritty taste of salt on skin
and that final dusty breath."
- From "Illusions"
Professional Reviews
Poet's work explores themes of love, loss
"You were born with it/It grew inside like a brush fire/Moths stayed clear, thin shreds of men turned to paper dolls, ... This is life, you breathe as the paper dolls march."
These are the enigmatic words of poet Kathy Kubik in her piece "This Fire" from the poetry chapbook "The Secret of Ivory Vows."
"When you get married there are a lot of secrets, a lot of things people don't tell you about marriage, like how hard it can be," said Kubik, who lives in Westmont with her husband, in reference to the title of the short book. The cover shows a wedding dress on an ominous black background.
"This book is different in that the voice is a little bit stronger," Kubik said. "Everything is related to love and loss. It isn't safe territory."
Released online in late January, Kubik's third chapbook is composed of 26 pieces that examine the themes of love, lust and loss. Her choice of words and conveyed images are meant to trap and subtly seduce the reader.
- Patti Murphy, Staff writer
Liberty Suburban Chicago Newspapers
Strong Poetic Voice
I had a couple favorites - "Near Miss at an El Station" (terrific little story - kind of like a 55 Fiction or a short-short) and "The Collector" (in a short space, this managed to say volumes about relationships, respect, and showing love in the little things - it was powerful and moving). Something about "Target Practice at Poetry Reading" totally worked for me - the ending just nailed it. The narrator of "Cold Mittens" felt especially real, and "The Day I Forgot" just made me smile.
Kathy has an extremely powerful voice. Highly recommended.
Inspirational poetry, written from the heart and soul. Verses that are well-suited for reading on a rainy day and that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
