Even Further West: Unveiling the Poetry of Eric Paul Shaffer

When it comes to contemporary American poets, Eric Paul Shaffer stands out as a true wordsmith who invites readers on a captivating journey. With his extraordinary collection titled "Even Further West," Shaffer transcends boundaries both geographically and intellectually, weaving together vivid imagery, profound emotions, and thought-provoking themes that leave a lasting impact on the reader's mind.

From the moment you open the book, you're transported to the western frontiers of America, embarking on a poetic expedition like no other. Shaffer's poetic voice echoes through the pages, offering a rich tapestry of experiences, cultural reflections, and personal introspections that paint a vibrant picture of the wild landscapes stretching far and wide.

The Beauty of Shaffer's Pen

Shaffer's poetry possesses an astounding ability to capture the essence of the West in its truest form. His words, like brushstrokes on a canvas, bring to life the majestic mountains, deep canyons, and endless plains that form the Western United States. By interweaving nature into his verses, Shaffer not only creates visuals but also evokes emotions, making the reader feel the scorching sun, the cool breeze, and the scent of wildflowers.

Even Further West

by Eric Paul Shaffer(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1406 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	88 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	129 pages
Item Weight	:	9 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.48 x 9 inches

FREE

What makes Shaffer's work even more exceptional is his keen observation and understanding of the people who inhabit these landscapes. Through his poems, he leads us to meet cowboys and lone travelers, natives and pioneers, each with their own stories and dreams. As we delve deeper into Shaffer's world, we begin to uncover the layers of complexities that bind humans to their terrains, crafting an exquisite tapestry of varied cultures and shared experiences.

Shaffer's language is a marvel in itself. His mastery of metaphor, similes, and descriptive language creates a vivid imagery that is second to none. Reading his poems feels like walking through a gallery of art, each word carefully chosen to paint a vivid landscape or delve into the innermost depths of the human soul. His verses resonate with readers on a profound level, leaving them with an awe-inspiring representation of the West, its people, and their stories.

The Themes Explored

Within "Even Further West," Shaffer tackles a myriad of themes that delve into the human condition, the vastness of life, and the intricacies of existence. Through his exploration of love, loss, memory, and nature's enduring spirit, he navigates the emotional spectrum with grace and sensitivity.

One of the noteworthy themes in Shaffer's poetry is the exploration of time and its impact on our perception of place. He dives into both the historical and the contemporary, bridging the gap between the past and the present through poignant narratives that intertwine decades, centuries, and millennia. As we read, we become travelers not only across space but also across time, witnessing the unfolding of tales told by those long gone and feeling the echoes of their voices in the present day.

Why "Even Further West" is a Must-Read

"Even Further West" is not just a collection of poems; it is a transformative experience that immerses readers in the wonders of American landscapes, history, and the human spirit. Shaffer's brilliant use of language, vivid imagery, and diverse themes ensures that every reader finds something resonating within their soul.

Whether you are an avid poetry enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Even Further West" is an essential addition to your bookshelf. Shaffer's collection takes you on a profound and enlightening journey, inviting you to explore the depths of the Western territories while contemplating the universal questions that bind humanity together.

So, grab a copy of "Even Further West" and prepare to be captivated by the rhythmic verses and powerful storytelling of Eric Paul Shaffer. Allow his words to transport you to the uncharted territories within yourself and the infinite landscapes that lie even further west.

Even Further West

by Eric Paul Shaffer(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1406 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	88 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	129 pages
Item Weight	:	9 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.48 x 9 inches

FREE

One evening on Lāhaina’s Front Street, as Shaffer walked to an evening with friends, someone passing on the sidewalk commented, “The islands are even further west than I thought.” Those accidental words, like poetry, shifted his perspective once again regarding the place he lives. Even Further West is a collection of poems written of, in, and on the Hawaiian islands. Companion volume to Lāhaina Noon, this collection includes poems striving to encounter and reveal the actual place and people hidden behind the pictures and posters, the myths and misunderstandings, of America’s only tropical state.

Years ago assigned by a keen reviewer to the “Clear Pool School” of poetry, Shaffer’s work again presents sharply detailed and unexpected scenes of how the blue world looks as a bouncing inflatable globe on a day at the beach, beneath a single streetlight on a dark upcountry road, after the surprise of “NO TRESPASSING” signs between slippahs and the sand, beyond our perverse thirst for apocalypse even in paradise. Yet a love for the land, people, friends, and significant others on the islands shines within these pages as well, in dry grass or rain, under plumeria and kiawe, and leads to lives that grow and flourish in the same landscape.