Highlander's Book Reviews

“Catacombs and Photographs”

by Brandy Schwan

Format: Paperback, 43 pages

Publisher: Apex Publications, 2008.

Catacombs and Photographs is Brandy Schwan’s second collection of poetry, following on from her previous collection “Grim Trixter”. Appropriately enough this collection is due to be published on 31st October which you may have noticed is Halloween/Samhain, a date which invokes the mysteries of the supernatural and mysterious otherworlds, a world which seems to suit the equally mysterious Brandy Schwan.

Mostly written in the comfort of her favourite writing tree, Brandy has created a dark and mysterious collection of poems, at times rich with historical influences, at others very unique and personal. As with all poetry the emotions invoked will vary for each person and will change with time but Brandy’s craft as a wordsmith and her unique outlook shine through. At times fiercely personal at others comically horrific, these are never less than thought provoking.

I can’t say they all resonated with me to the same extent, some I found a touch brash, others a touch too personal (for her not me) and some were just beyond me (that says more about my lack of intellect than Brandy’s writing). What I can say is that this collection was a unique and enjoyable experience, metaphors overlaid with illusions wrapped up in enigma’s, serial killers abound, nightmares evoked. Only two problems, its short, and the font used for titling is bizarre and at time unreadable but these are not Brandy’s fault her art (and soul) shine through regardless. To order any of Brandy Schwan’s work checkout the Apex website here or Brandy’s myspace site here.

Rating 3 out of 5