Defense Mechanisms
by Jessica Goody


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Defense Mechanisms consists of seventy-five poems, mostly free verse, deeply personal confessional and narrative pieces which explore the public perception of disability and the many aspects of living with a handicap. These poems cover a wide variety of subject matter, including numerous odes to the beauty of nature, but the main theme is Hope–the triumph over pain and trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. The title stems from the fact that nearly every part of nature is a defense mechanism, a way of coping with life and above all, survival. <br /><br />Highly observant and deeply moving, the seventy-five poems in this collection from award-winning poet Jessica Goody utilize themes of difference and affinity to open vistas into the nature of reality. Whether describing the confines of an iron lung or the liberty of the open sea, her nuanced language delivers unforgettable images of a world that holds more questions than answers. There is pain here, and loss, but also joy and freedom in which the fetters of physicality become the means to explore what it means to be fully human. <br /><br />&#x201c;This is strong poetic work, with content that is important, very visual, and emotionally moving.&#x201d;<br />&#x2014;Bill Newby, poet<br /><br />&#x22;Goody provides sensitive observations of nature and the world around her.&#x201d;<br />-Jan Henson Dow, Professor Emeritus at Western Connecticut State University<br /> <br />&#x201c;Defense Mechanisms is extraordinary! Amazing stuff; so nuanced, so deep. I am in awe of Goody&#x2019;s accomplishments. Her perspectives on the world and its various residents&#x2014;some human, others not&#x2014;are nothing short of amazing. She has great gifts of perspective, language, and emotion and profound knowledge of the human condition. I cheer&#x2014;loudly and joyously&#x2014;for her and her skills!&#x201d;<br />&#x2014;Harvey Trabb, co-author of September 19