Whether observing the antics of animals, beachgoers, or professional golfers, the habits of her husband, friends, or nemesis, Jane Blanchard has a master poet's eye for the telling yet easily missed detail, a master poet's imagination for illuminating comparisons, and-above all-a master poet's wit and wisdom that make for some of the pithiest verse being written today. She is also a poet with an emotional range that ties together both recurring themes and unexpected twists, interspersing wry humor and irony with moving poems of spiritual reflection, sadness, and loss.-Steven E. Knepper, Professor, Virginia Military InstituteFurthermore sparkles with wit and virtuosity. Among its many highlights are an ingenious meditation in the voice of Sisyphus, a self-deprecating tribute to the Book of Kells, a lovely trio of devotional lyrics, and the arresting apostrophe "To Carolyn." Jane Blanchard is a wise and gifted poet.-Robert M. West, Professor, Mississippi State UniversityIn meters one could dance to, Jane Blanchard blesses us with poem after delightful poem in various traditional forms-sonnet, villanelle, ballad, triolet, rondeau, and more-that show her unique dexterity. And not a cold-hearted dexterity either. Each poem is infused with a full humanity that ranges in tone from Martial's tart epigrams to Blake's sweet songs of innocence. The aptly titled Furthermore reminds us there is always something else to laugh at, something else to cry over. And to be able to laugh and cry in the company of this fine poet makes the experience all the more bracing and tender. By the last pages of this collection, you will have made much more than a mere literary acquaintance. You will have made a friend. -Paul J. Willis, Professor Emeritus, Westmont College
