I am thrilled to let you know that Literary Revelations’ new poetry and art album Haiku and Tanka: Lull, Harmony and Power in Japanese Art is #1 Top Release on Amazon in the US and #1 Bestseller in Japan ! The book is authored by Hikari and Gabriela Marie Milton (me)
Please check the book here:
Thank you to everyone who helped us.
I realize it is not cheap, but it’s an art album, and we cannot lower the price because of production costs.
All my love
Gabriela Marie Milton
PS. I am very sorry I cannot like your posts. WordPress banned me from giving likes on the day of the launch, right after I posted.
Below is the opening poem from one of my #1 Amazon bestsellers, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writing, and a review by Fabian Bats that, in the beginning, refers to The Miracle of You. Fabian got it!
The Miracle of You
the moon’s right-hand pours soul into my flesh pigeons’ wings bring scents of lilac blooms the air gets drunk with poetry statuary women of the water flaunt their hair
within the loneliness of you my heart rotates five equinoxes on a wooden spindle your eyes pour flesh into my soul my body germinates the sounds of growing leaves I wash my hands into the waters of Guadalquivir in the scented night of those who never sleep I say I love you and in one single breath our wedding is transformed in an enraptured death
[Following is a volunteer review of “Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings” by Gabriela Marie Milton.]
4 out of 4 stars
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Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings by Gabriela Marie Milton is a book of 126 poems; 84 love poems, 6 Italian, and 36 others. In the foreword, the author was praised for her ability to pour out passion, from within her creative mind, into her poetry, and this raised my expectations for deep and insightful poems significantly. The author makes good use of the acknowledgments section, by communicating with the reader, which I liked. There is also a responsive table of contents at the start of the book that allows the reader to resume reading with ease.
As the title indicates, love is an overriding theme in this collection of poems, and the book is opened with one of such. The first poem is my favorite in the book; it took a few re-reads to grasp, but when I did, I instantly thought to myself “Genius!”.
After my first read, I had no clue what I had just read, “what is the link between the title and the poem?”, I thought, racking my head and moving on to the next poem, hoping for less murky waters to swim in -at the start of the book, it is humorous, I know. However, when I came back to read it again, and started seeing links, I felt butterflies, I marveled at the beauty of the words chosen and how a particular figure of speech was used here or there, and when the stars aligned in my mind, I saw clearly that the author was referring to the night of a honeymoon (it could mean a host of other things to other readers, simply because poetry is art). From this point onward, it was difficult to put the book down.
Geographical locations are referred to in metaphors and other figures of speech. Landmarks in Spain are mentioned several times in the book, and Spanish history is also referenced. A few other landmarks are also referenced; hence prior knowledge of Geography would make the poems all the more enjoyable.
The Italian translations section also has the English text placed by the side. The poems in Italian were very similar to the poems in the previous chapters, that were centered on love, however, one of the best poems in the book, in my opinion, was in that section, “Languor of love/Languore”. The final section in the book, “Prose poems and flash fiction”, had more understandable content, and two of my favorites from it were “Art” and “Thoughts”. They were written simply and beautifully.
I liked the wordplay very much, the figurative expressions were so well fused, that a wandering mind would be unable to grasp. This book is an advanced work of poetry, with complex rhyming schemes that change per chapter. It must be read with maximum concentration. This is a book of poems so I would recommend this book to those who like poetry, especially the romantic genre, and have at least beginner-level experience in poetry (like myself), also those who want to delve into poetry for the first time, can give it an attempt at their own risk.
The book has no profane language and mild sensual content, which could easily grow within one’s mind whilst reading. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars, for being professionally edited, conveying a series of beautiful messages powerfully, and being a one of a kind book in its genre.
Thank you for reading and enjoy the rest of your day!
My books (Only English) #1 Amazon bestseller, Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings (Vita Brevis) #1 Amazon Bestseller, Women: Splendor and Sorrow (Vita Brevis)
Thank you to all my followers who reviewed my books. Please read other reviews here:
Christina Schwarz, the author of the New York Times Bestseller “Drowning Ruth.”
“With lush language and lavish imagery, Gabriela Marie Milton. evokes a fantastic world ripe with emotion.” Christina Schwartz
Edited Collections: #1 Amazon Bestseller, Hidden in Childhood (Literary Revelations) #1 Amazon bestseller,Petals of Haiku (Literary Revelations) #1 Amazon Bestseller, Wounds I Healed: The Poetry of Strong Women (EIF)
For you a reading from Cindy Georgakas’ book Celebrating Poetry. The poem is entitled There is no distance between hearts that love. I read only an excerpt.
So many miles away, I feel your pain and despair. Your country is suffering, and I am suffering with you because you are my friends. I may have never met you; but I know your heart.
I know your stories, I know your desires, I know your struggles, I know your purpose, I know your families, I know your work, your trials and tribulations, your ultimate highs and lows, your dreams and vision for a better tomorrow…
Cindy Georgakas
For you too I discounted the book. The eBook is now $2.99 and the paperback $9.99.
To those of you who celebrate Thanksgiving I wish you a beautiful week ahead and Happy Thanksgiving! To those who do not celebrate a century of love from me and my publishing house Literary Revelations.
First, I want to share with you a poem included in my book Passions: Love Poems and Other Writings. I hope you enjoy it.
SEDUCTION
the rhythm of castanets awakens the moon on opal rings your kisses spin a cricket’s hitting a crescendo waves tattoo dark shadows on your skin sonority, you who vibrates the souls of those who haunt at night the Port of Cartagena
I toss in smells of apricots and plumes the Hand of Fatima takes off my veils your forehead sinks into the sweat of lovers who sever their veins oh, dream of the unknowns, you, latency, the sigh of blood which flows
in spring both mud and flowers grow didn’t you know that when you said I love you you stepped on roads of fables and folk tales? you glued your heart onto a purple sunset smells of lilac and of roses, impregnated strolls, seduction, it wasn’t me it was you who stole his soul
CELEBRATING POETRY BY CINDY GEORGAKAS
Second, I would like to remind you that Literary Revelations just published Celebrating Poetry by Cindy Georgakas. It’s a wonderful book and I would like you – if you can – to continue to buy it.
Yesterday Cindy was still #1 in Inspirational and Religious poetry. Congratulations from the bottom of my heart to Cindy. However, there were many problems with Amazon apps that showed the eBook unavailable in the US market. At this point things were fixed but just in case if you cannot buy the eBook via the app, please open your browser, paste the link below, and sign in your Amazon Account. That way you certainly can buy.
Yesterday:
Last night we lost the banner to a haiku book that Amazon stacked in front of us. The haiku book does not have any category remotely close to Religious & Inspirational Poetry. I have spoken to Amazon and I trust that the problem will be corrected.
I want to share with you the foreword of the book. I hope you enjoy it.
Have a great morning/evening!
Cindy Georgakas is not just a wellness therapist; she is a beacon of hope and creativity through her exceptional poetry. Celebrating the profound impact of her written words, we find that her beautiful verses resonate deeply with those who seek to overcome obstacles in their lives. Each poem serves as a reminder that it’s possible to celebrate success, regain trust in yourself, and ultimately embrace love and happiness.
Cindy’s book, Celebrating Poetry: A Companion Guide to Re-Recreate and Celebrate, speaks directly to the heart of human experience—overcoming grief and restoring trust in oneself. Her poetry acts as a guiding light for those navigating their own journeys of healing. Reading her poetry is more than just an act; it’s an immersive journey that encourages introspection and growth. Through her verses, Cindy helps others find solace and strength in their struggles, proving that even the most challenging paths can lead to renewal.
Cindy Georgakas stands out as a beacon of inspiration in the world of poetry. Each beautifully crafted verse invites readers on a journey to regain trust in themselves, overcome obstacles, and embrace hope.
In a world where many feel lost or disconnected, Cindy Georgakas offers not only words but also a chance for readers to reconnect with their inner selves and rediscover joy amidst adversity. Embrace the opportunity to explore her work; you may find that within each line lies the key to your own healing journey.
As some of you may know Literary Revelations will publish Cindy Georgakas’ book Celebrating Poetry: A Companion Guide to Re-create and and Celebrate.
Cindy is such a beloved member of our community and her poetry is beautiful.
I will release the foreword to the book soon. Until then a reading done by me from Cindy’s poetry. I hope you enjoy it.
Marching on a Mission by Cindy Georgakas
Eyes on the prize, there will be detours, I’m not going to lie. Keep your focus, just for today, do what you say you will. Strengthen that muscle, for there is an end in sight. Remember to celebrate when you arrive, because, as soon as you do, there are going to be others. Don’t let the falls take you under, pick yourself up from off the ground. You made it! You’ve arrived! Don’t forget to say, “thank you; I survived!”
I am in heaven. Full Moon Confessions by Tracey Anne – published by Literary Revelations – becomes #1 Bestseller in Japan while maintaining its #1 Top Release in the US.
Thank you to everyone who supports me and Literary revelations. I am deeply grateful.
Have a magical evening! Have a productive morning!
My lovely contributors & followers, it’s night here. I woke up and found out that Petals of Haiku: An Anthology by Literary Revelations is now a #1 Amazon Bestseller on Japanese & Haiku Poetry. Not only a Top Release but a #1 Amazon Bestseller. I am overwhelmed with joy! Congratulations to all contributors. Special thanks the Hikari @hikari2162554 and Naoki Kimura @cogito_ergo0sum. Special thanks to everyone who supported us.
I am overjoyed.
Gabriela Marie Milton 2022 Pushcart Prize Nominee Publisher, Editor, Award Winning & #1 Amazon Bestselling Author
I was planning to launch Petals of Haiku: An Anthology by Literary Revelations tomorrow May 30. However the book became a New Amazon Top Release before its launch. I am in heaven. Congratulations to all contributors. Thank you to everyone who helped us. Love to everyone.
Gabriela.
You can check the book out here.
Gabriela Marie Milton 2022 Pushcart Prize Nominee Publisher, Editor, Award Winning & #1 Amazon Bestselling Author Books:
It is with great pleasure that we bring to you the full cover design of Petals of Haiku: An Anthology, a superb book that Literary Revelations plans to release mid to late May 2024. We are humbled by your submissions. Over 150 poets are included in this anthology and we are profoundly grateful to the award winning Japanese painter Hikari whose art work is phenomenal, as well as to the award winning Japanese photographer Naoki Kimura who provided the background photo.
We are also proud of the wonderful and innovative cover design, done by Iuliana Irimia, a young and talented artist, based in Montreal, Canada. Iuliana worked with Hikari’s beautiful cover art and the end result is a gorgeous marriage between Hikari’s Japanese art and Iuliana’s Western take on the conceptualizing of haiku. This marriage is highly reflected in the haiku included in this book.
A Few Words about the Anthology
Petals of Haiku is not just an anthology that Literary Revelations is proud to publish. It’s a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of haiku poetry like never before. The spectacular haiku writers featured in this collection bring to life the delicacy of seasons and the profound range of human emotions, from joy to grief, in a way that is both delightful and deeply moving.
The art on the cover by award-winning painter Hikari sets the tone for what awaits inside – a world where words dance off the page and into your heart. The background photo by award-winning Japanese photographer Naoki Kimura adds another layer of beauty to this already exquisite collection.
A few words about Japanese haiku
Before Literary Revelations publishes the anthology I want to share with you several thoughts advanced by Westerns and Asian scholars on haiku. The traditional haiku form is one thing 5-7-5 syllables and it is generally known by all writers of haiku. However, most importantly for Literary Revelations is what we discovered in the haiku included in our collection. That is to say how the poets included in the anthology expressed their feelings and how haiku evolved since its inception to the present.
As Bruce Ross argues in the The Essence of Haiku (Modern Haiku, 2007), “affective feeling generated through the absolute metaphor of haiku became associated with different kinds of aesthetic values in traditional Japanese haiku. Mono no aware, “the pathos of things,” is an overall term for how one is affected by things. Other aesthetic values in haiku include wabi, “simplicity,” sabi, “metaphysical loneliness,” and yûgen, “mystery.” Contrary to Western poetics (aside from Romanticism), for example, Oriental (sic!) poetry and poetics was centered upon such states of affective feeling…. So rather than being a senseless thing, a flower in a given context could radiate affective feeling for the Japanese haiku poet not as symbol, but as an existentially valid presence.”
The last sentence here is of great importance. Symbolists will disagree that a flower is a senseless thing. However, they will argue that the symbol behind the flower is magic and meaningful; the real flower is just “charming.” Yet, this does not mean that symbolists cannot understand or feel what haiku transmits. Poetry is art and as Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson claims art “helps us identify with one another and expands our notion of we—from the local to the global.” One can go ahead and look at the work of scholars who study the neuroplasticity of the brain and decide for himself/herself.
Bruce Ross continues, “It should be noted, additionally, that the “feeling” in haiku is usually not the demonstrative emotion of Western poetry. Haiku is not used to express strong emotions, which are usually reserved for tanka. Rather it is a mode of receptive feeling between a poet and his natural subject, even though the poet’s emotional climate often affects and even directs his/her relation to the subject.”
While the first part of the paragraph is clear the second claim appears questionable. If the emotional climate affects and directs the relationship to the subject is then the flower only “an existentially valid presence”?
One way or another Bruce Ross’ essay is extremely valuable. You can find it here
Again, we are thrilled to release the gorgeous cover and we hope you enjoy it.
Gabriela Marie Milton 2022 Pushcart Prize Nominee Publisher, Editor, Award Winning & #1 Amazon Bestselling Author Books:
