This chapbook, first published in 1990, was perhaps a pioneer of the sadly growing list of "AIDS memorial" chapbooks. As such, it doesn't have a lot of lilting language, melodious rhymings or crafted imagery. It does have anger, profanity, and a wrenching, tangible sense of loss and bitterness. Some of Shepherd's poems come off as hopelessly melancholy; others unnecessarily foul-mouthed; and some as on-target with a profound sense of grief. Not overly poetic; but undeniable work for those interested in a reality dose of what a real AIDS death means to those left behind.--Roger-Kyle Keith
This review originally appeared in TapRoot Reviews #5,
Contact the editor, luigi-bob drake, at Burning Press
Copyright Burning Press 1994, 1996.