Bethany Petrie

Erosion of the Soul Bethany Petrie

As Bobby Jones' first published book of poetry, Erosion of the Soul is an exploratory collection that goes against the usual conventions of other more etablished poets. He doesn't shy away from the morbid, earning him his title "The Dark Poet." Both dark and cathartic, Erosion of the Soul is a poignant and insightful collection of poems that touches on the hopeful yet elusive nature of spirituality, the allure of drugs, the frustrations towards our political leaders, and the resignations of aging. Bobby uses powerful and, often times, grim imagery to convey intense feelings of despondency, turmoil, and angst. He juxtaposes these funereal poems with hopeful and ethereal pieces that seek comfort from God and religion. While his poems are steeped in complicated emotions, he refrains from convoluting the language, making this set of poems a pleasure to read and grasp. Between poems, he often switches from rhyming to free verse, heightening the reader's sense of disorientation and unease. These poems follow a profound and spiritual journey that invite readers to examine their minds and discover the light and dark of the human condition.