VOICES IN THE WIND

A collection of uplifting, inspirational religious poetry that spans 28 years of the author’s life.

As a Black man who faced adversity growing up in the projects, Brown uses poetry to process struggle, profess his love for family, and proclaim his faith. In primarily free verse poems and rhyming couplets, he explores topics from socio-economic status to racism. In “Why,” he mourns the loss of those felled to violence. Brown wonders if his culture can be reborn through Christianity, if people of all colors can come together in pursuit of a higher purpose, and he rails against poverty, which he deems “a plaque [sic] that rides us all / A disease that will be our fall.” Some poems read like prayers, direct communications between the author and God. Others, like “Stop! Comforting the Devil,” serve as cautionary tales: “The devil is looking around watching you closely, waiting for the right moment to erupt your walk with God.” Brown even takes on the perspective of God in “When I Call,” questioning why people have forgotten him. Though he occasionally engages in wordplay, such as a poem titled “Sinderella,” his poems are more cerebral than playful, and as a result, there is little sensory detail or establishment of place. Brown is clearly moved by his faith, and his vulnerability and willingness to share his personal relationship with God imbue his work. The collection, however, sticks to standard spiritual themes of being cleansed, saved, and forgiven and leans too heavily on platitudes: “His words bring life through you in the hour of need / You are God’s vessel taking time in others to water His seed.” His writing is at its strongest when it delves into details particular to his community.

Religious readers will find familiar, comforting, but not unique expressions of authentic faith.