“The Marshalsea” By Robert J. Lacey

Review by LB Sedlacek

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cyberwit.net (November 20, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 44 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9363542874
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9363542877
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.54 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.11 x 8.5 inches

In “The Marshalsea,” Robert J. Lacey defies poetic norm by opening his book with a fun imagined romp on the tennis court with Robert Frost. He expertly weaves in verses or dialogue the revered poet might have said or written. This makes for a wonderful opening poem inviting the reader into this marvelous new offering from the poet.

He continues forth with a step back into time with his second poem, “Once and Future Republic.” In this poem an organ grinder experiences a “Lunatic eclipse mocking an ashen world.” His only recourse is to play on. This poem really creates a stunning imaginative piece to absorb.

From there he turns his attention to David. Yes, that David, the king.

These poems could be considered fresh takes on known or unknown themes and subjects and so on. Lacey writes verse rich with emotions and intimate depth. He uses real-life backdrops or figures to invite readers into his poetical world.

From the title poem “The Marshalsea”:

“She walks the foggy streets to her destiny,

And after knocking, waits for the turnkey

To open the gate of the Marshalsea,

Where from worldly concerns Father is free

Despite the shame of incarceration.”

Lacey’s explorations include the title poem written in rhyme. It tells the story of guests who may or may not be able to leave The Marshalsea. 

The poet’s voice is clear offering the reader complex visuals with superb clarity. Each verse pulses with an immediate relatable moment. The language is a mixture of free verse or rhyme firmly grounded in precision and form.

More from the title poem “The Marshalsea”:

“With his visitors he will always engage

And hold court like a venerable sage

From the confines of his comfortable cage,

Condemning what he sees in the modern age:

The death of freedom and civilization.”

This poem reeks of darkness, but also full of endless possibilities. It is reminiscence of real-life power struggles and/or resilience and captures a tension of vast imagination with the potential of reality.

Other subjects included in this new collection include lies, vespers, fables, and asking “Who am I?” Lacey’s poems speak to who he is as a poet at the core aka he knows the art of which he speaks or really writes.

Reading this poetry book will churn your thoughts, and entertain you at the same time. Lacey’s poems are a worthwhile venture of presence. 

This poetry book offers vivid verse from its creator. Lacey has something to say that comes through loud and clear in his poems.

~LB Sedlacek is the author of several books of poetry including “Unresponsive Sky,” “Poem Medicine,” “The Poet Next Door,” “Simultaneous Submissions,” “Ghost Policy,” “Swim,” “and “This Space Available.”  Her short stories books include “The Jackalope Committee & Other Stories” and “The Renovator & Motor Addiction.” Her poem novel is “The Blue Eyed Side.”