Book Review - Brightness from the Shadows

Brightness from the Shadows

By: Jon M. Nelson
Publisher: Tate Publishing
Publication Date: May 2015
ISBN: 978-1-68028-791-2
Reviewed by: Diane Lunsford
Review Date: May 19, 2015

Jon M. Nelson delivers an uplifting compilation of poetry and offers his audience hope and positive inspiration in his latest body of work, Brightness from the Shadows.

“Human Condition” is a broad subject matter and Nelson breaks it down in sections. In his book’s opening many stanzas fill the pages with the focus on children and how very important they are in his life: ‘A Child Is… precious and should be treated as such… is the future and should be shown the way…’ Nelson has devoted the first 40+ pages to his take on the importance of children in our lives. He uses his basic (and signature) language to communicate a heart-felt message and does so with a positive tone to his written voice.

This book is not all lollipops and cotton candy, however. There is a section titled ‘Human is Falling’ that is devoted to the gradual decline of humankind. One of the poems, Crimson Rain, appeared in Nelson’s first book (Reflections of Life) and was used then in a context of war. The beauty in poetry is its subjectivity to interpretation and if used via a different platform, the essence of its meaning can take on a whole new light and deliver new ‘food for thought’ perspective. In Reflections I recall associating the overall premise of Crimson Rain to war. In Brightness, however, I found myself associating the message and meaning to the constant and unnecessary acts of violence: ‘...I look down and cry at this dreadful sight, for all of this suffering just isn’t right...’ The recent (and unnecessary) raping and pillaging of the City of Baltimore came to mind for me.

Even in the harsh realities of life as we know it today, however, Nelson refuses to paint a maudlin picture of woe and destitution. Rather, he continues to raise his audience to higher limits with his insistent connection with God in the book’s section titled: For God and Country. He leads his audience by the hand down his all-too-familiar military path. Nelson is an active duty soldier and in this portion of the book, his words exude the message of his heartfelt love and pride to serve this great country of America. Bond of Brothers is a strong message of the importance of working together no matter the individual differences: ‘...We may not have always gotten along, but we knew we were a part of the same fight...at times the bickering was senseless...but we came together under stress, it created a bond that was permanent...’

Similar to Reflections of Life, Mr. Nelson categorically breaks down Brightness from the Shadows into specific topics/themes. He feeds his positive messaging to his audience in tiny, bite-sized pieces in order to savor the varied flavors of hopeful inspiration. Nelson has a distinct style of using basic English that allows the reader to absorb the message without scratching his or her head trying to figure out lofty and outrageous words. Nelson has done an admirable job of assembling a body of poems that offers up a little something for everyone. Brightness from the Shadows is the perfect addition to anyone’s nightstand.

Quill says: Read one or two poems before turning in for the night. It’s the perfect remedy for completing the day on a positive note.

For more information on Brightness from the Shadows , please visit the author's website at: www.jonmnelson.com

Book Review - Reflections of Life

Reflections of Life

By: Jon M. Nelson
Publisher: Tate Publishing & Enterprises, LLC
Publication Date: June 2013
ISBN: 978-1-62510-332-1
Reviewed by: Diane Lunsford
Review Date: October 12, 2013

Jon M. Nelson shares heartfelt sentiments across a broad spectrum of poetry compilations that range from American pride to love sprinkled with subtle nuances toward the dark side as well.

Mr. Nelson’s poetry allows the reader to experience a natural connection and understanding toward the many challenges humans face today. He strategically exposes his audience at the onset with the concept of American pride. However, it’s not just about pride. Rather the deeper one reads into this body of work, the further he or she will understand the many sacrifices this former soldier endured for the pride (and love) of his country. He holds no remorse in his decision to wear the uniform and prolifically writes his sentiments of what that means through the many poems in the section titled "American Pride." Through this series of poems, Nelson treats the reader to several variations of what it means to be a soldier and more importantly, how ingrained his (and their) honor is to pay homage to the ‘Red, White and Blue.’ One poem, in particular, All In a Day’s Work: ‘...Up in the morning before it’s even light, They work all day, then go home at night. Giving it all through the sweat and hurt, For them, this is all just in a day’s work...’ , Mr. Nelson portrays an admirable and humble quality in his delivery. I have never served in the military and therefore can only ponder the inherent conviction one must own to serve our country and unrequitedly at that.

As a writer myself, poetry has often presented a challenge for me to get it down on paper in form to touch the emotions of many. In Reflections of Life, there is a natural flow from stanza to stanza that makes sense and does indeed tap into a series of emotions. Mr. Nelson does not use large and ostentatious wording to complicate the premise. Rather, he uses a vast selection of hard hitting words with impact; allowing the reader to formulate his or her own opinion. In A Soldier’s Night Before Christmas, Nelson has used the age-old Dickens classic and blanketed it with a whole new twist. It is the Night Before Christmas, but this time, it’s a Soldier’s night: ‘…The soldiers were tired and laid in their racks. It was a long day, and it was time to hit the sacks. The chaplain had just given the evening prayer. And it was time to doze off without a care. When outside the tent something had exploded. We all jumped up, and we locked and loaded...’

Nelson expands on his soldier premise and addresses the importance of love; to believe in and chase after your dreams and yes, have a little (or a lot of) faith. Even in darker moments; such as Crimson Rain: “...As I look all around, everything is soaked. From all the violence that’s been provoked. Crimson rivers now flow through the street, and it is everywhere I try to place my feet...’ At the poem’s end, there may not be a happily ever after, but the tone is not full of admonishments. Rather, it’s laced with an open ended wonder of ‘why’ and, again, Nelson leaves it up to the reader to arrive at the answer. Simply put, Jon M. Nelson has delivered an insightful body of work that many readers can gravitate to and perhaps apply the message to something going on in his or her life. Essentially, there’s a little bit of something for everyone in Reflections of Life.

Quill says: Reflections of Life is a heartfelt rendition of a soldier’s life experiences and memories. There is, without question, something between its covers for a broad spectrum of readers.

Interview with Author Jon M. Nelson

Today we're talking with Jon M. Nelson, author of Reflectioins of Life

FQ: I have a personal formula I use when I am about to read a fellow author’s work. I typically read the dedication first because it is my way of learning something about the author’s personality. I found your dedication to be extremely moving: “To all the men and women of the Armed Forces and to my daughter, Bailey, and the future generations that will succeed us in this world.” In that brief opening, I gleaned you were extremely proud to serve your country. How long did you serve in the U.S. Army?

I am still actively serving. I've been in nearly 18 years now, and I am planning to retire in the next couple years.

FQ: There is a humble and tender quality in the way you use your words. Sad but true, people are often viewed by the jobs/roles they hold in life. Sometimes the stigma of ‘soldier’ conjures a perception of macho. Would you mind sharing some of the feedback you received from some of your brothers in arms?

I have received nothing but positive comments and compliments from fellow service members and veterans so far. I have also been approached by family members of veterans as well to thank me for what I do. A lot of them say that I speak for so many military members and put in to words so many thoughts and emotions that others can't begin to grasp or understand.

Author Jon M. Nelson in Uniform

FQ: I detect a note of struggle to the answer “why” when it comes to war; particularly in your poem “Crimson Rain.” Was it difficult to write this poem (and how long did it take to get the prolific rendition you delivered down on paper)?

Actually the poem "Crimson Rain" had nothing to do with my military experience. The idea was based on all the tragedy and senseless violence that the world sees on a daily basis. We always hear about school shootings and random acts of cruelty everywhere. I think I wrote the poem in about five minutes, after seeing one of these tragic stories on the news. When will it all end?

FQ: You dedicate your book to your daughter Bailey as well as the men and women of the Armed Forces. Would you encourage her to enlist some day?

My family has a proud tradition of military service. My dad was a Marine, and two of my brothers also enlisted in the Army, one of which is still serving. A few of my nieces and nephews have entertained the thought of joining as well. If Bailey decides to join some day I will support her 100%. I will not steer her in one direction or another. I will be proud of her no matter what career she decides to pursue.

FQ: There is a lot of positive inspiration in your writing. Do you ever tour and share your message with the soldiers? If so, would you care to share one of your most memorable moments in so doing? If not, do you have plans to do this at some point in time?

I try to do as many book signings, speeches, and other promotional events as I can. I try to bring inspiration and positive messages to everyone, not just soldiers. I write about so many subjects that pretty much everyone can relate to them. One moment that really sticks out in my mind was shortly after my first book was released. I was doing a book signing for that book, Changing Moods, and later that day a veteran who was actually in charge of a veteran's organization in that area, who had read that book, asked me if I'd be interested in giving a Memorial Day Speech. I was honored to give that speech.

FQ: What has been the most positive impact on you from your military experience? Why?

Author Jon M. Nelson

The fact that I know I'm making a difference and I'm doing so much for my country and my fellow man.

FQ: Do you envision yourself expanding your writing from poetry to a novel? Memoir?

As a matter of fact, I am currently working on a novel along with a few short stories. I'd also like to expand into songwriting as well.

FQ: During your tour, what area of the world was most difficult to assimilate to and (aside from being away from your loved ones), what comfort did you miss the most?

I would have to say that Afghanistan was the hardest place for me to adjust to. You never knew who to trust or what their intentions were. We even had to be leery of little children, which was heartbreaking, because they were so easily influenced by their surroundings.

FQ: Who has been the most positive influence in your life and what makes him or her “the one”?

My muse is my wife, Amanda. She has been my rock and inspiration in so many ways. Like I mentioned in the acknowledgement of my book, every love poem in the second chapter were written for and to her. I could not, or would I want to imagine my life without her.

FQ: I thoroughly enjoyed your collection of poetry. It was very thought-provoking and at times, quite introspective. I cannot imagine you are not working on a new writing project. If you are, is it possible to share?

In addition to the novel and short stories that I mentioned earlier, I'm also working on my third book of poetry. This book will be a bit different than what my fans are used to. This new book will include story poems and a few poems that may be a little bit off the wall, but I'll still try to be inspiring and thought provoking with this new material I have written.

To learn more about Reflections of Life please read the review at: Feathered Quill Book Reviews.