I Live In Music

Rating:
Summary: Artful synergy¿.
Review: Ntozake Shange's poem, "i live in music", along with Romare Bearden's collages are presented together in this appealing book. The text and the visuals are skillfully paired and they feed each other's expressions.

"i got 15 trumpets where other women got hips

& a upright bass for both sides of my heart"

Shange's words are in turn playful, soulful, artful. The music she describes is encompassing and tangible - a real thing to be felt and true part of our beings.

Bearden's collages and paintings are vivid, engaging images of African American life and culture. The images are expressive and rich illustrations of musicians and singers. "Show Time" and "Fancy Sticks" are nearly audible - one can see the rhythm and song.

Shange and Bearden's talents complement each other so well one would think this had been a concurrent, collaborative effort rather than subsequent assemblage.

Along with i live in music, I highly recommend all the books in this series by Stewart, Tabori & Chang's Art and Poetry series:

"Life Doesn't Frighten Me", poem by Maya Angelou, paintings by Jean-Michel Basquiat..... "may i feel said he", poem by e. e. cummings, paintings by Marc Chagall...... "Dance Me to the End of Love", poem by Leonard Cohen, paintings by Henri Matisse

Each one would be a wonderful gift for a teacher, art lover, musician, poet,.... or anyone seeking inspiration. Treat yourself to one - or all.

For all ages.

Rating:
Summary: Fell in love
Review: Someone read this book to me when I was young. Ever since then I've been inspired to write. I love this book. The word use by Ntozake is refreshing. Her poetry is very original. She has accomplished a lot, because it's suitable for all age groups.