Kirjahaku

Praise for Robin Thomas’s work:"He has clearly used his logical, scientific way of thinking; his ability to dissect and deconstruct, to write in a way that is fresh and inspiring and allows us to glimpse his deep compassion for all of us flawed human beings." Susan Jane Sims on A Fury of Yellow "There’s real power in the sparse language and the use of repetition. Thomas writes with compassion but without a trace of sentimentality." Ama Bolton on A Fury of Yellow

Full of wry intelligence, and a sideways perspective that digs beneath the surface of things, Robin Thomas's second collection is creative, witty and warm. Never predictable, leaning on images from art, the cadences of jazz and remarkable moments, whether from history or life, there is an unswerving pressure on language and a sense of mischief that can turn out to be unnervingly serious. This is accomplished, confident work.

In all of Robin Thomas’s work there is a subtlety and wit so contained that it invites re-reading. It takes full immersion to savour the linguistic dexterity and intelligence at work, to appreciate that humour often belies the absolute seriousness of life. In reminded of something, this balance is particularly delicate and the poignancy superbly controlled and utterly affecting. With a yearning that can only come of love and loss, the poems use the simplest of metaphors in the most lucid language to convey memories and emotions so complex and heart-breaking that they are almost beyond the scope of words—a collection that is profoundly moving and exquisitely realised.

The poems in 'The Weather on the Moon' turn Manet on his head, enter the thoughts of a post prandial lion, view and buy a 'snorting' Hot Rod, and imagine life on a modern-day Titanic. Bubbling away throughout this intense, sometimes humorous, sometimes quirky, always compassionate poetry is a joy in language, its possibilities, and music.

The Dolls’ House Maker’s Room sits in a house of tools and memories, the tools as much metaphors as objects, the memories laden with objects and images, with the places and events that shape what we know and what we don’t. A maven of gentle surprise, Robin Thomas’ language is supple, generous and deeply reflective; his observations sharp, quick-witted and beautifully controlled. There is a signature breadth of reference in these poems — travel, film, the absurdities of life and human history, art, mortality, loss — united by a confident, distinctive, humane voice. bats foxes planes clouds lives made and unmade revolutions tea and cake a stately moon eternal stars I wake. It’s day. You’re still not here. (from ‘Wake’)

Kant and marmalade, a solemn talk with a lift, an existential struggle with something from IKEA, an absurdist discussion of meaning in poetry, or a disquisition on the nature of windows: Robin Thomas is a poet of high imagination, always looking for the unusual angle and finding it over and over in this, his latest collection. Giant Crabs and Spiders ranges across philosophy, painting, music, literature, politics, history, science, and what it’s like to be alive. The poet explores knowledge, ethics, meaning, mortality, and writes of loss and grief. Bubbling away through these intense, sometimes quirky, always compassionate poems is a joy in language, its musical resources and endless possibilities.

Too often, marriage is a stalemate or, worse yet, a war zone. But God wants your marriage to be a prophetic picture of Jesus and his bride, the church. Now you can discover the biblical secrets to a joyful marriage.In this refreshing study, Art Thomas weaves together inspiring true stories, personal experiences, proven research, and practical advice, laying out a path for healthy growth in your marriage.In Good News for Your Marriage, you willUnderstand the gospel in a whole new lightRead inspiring testimonies from real-life couplesLearn strategies for spiritual growth togetherReceive tools for rebuilding trust and intimacyRenew your hope and commitment to Jesus and each otherExperience a resurrection in your own marriage as you embrace deep truths from God's Word, creating a more fulfilling union with your spouse than you ever imagined. "I highly recommend Art Thomas's book Good News for Your Marriage. Art's unique perspective is gospel-centered and Spirit-led. And it's written by a man who, together with his wife, Robin, provides a shining example of what marriage can and should be."Daniel KolendaPresident, Christ for All NationsLead Pastor, Nations Church, Orlando, FL "Good News for Your Marriage provides valuable insight on growing and maintaining your marriage from both a spiritual and therapeutic perspective. As a counselor, I would highly recommend this book to Christian couples who are wanting to improve their marriage and examine how their marriage can lead others to the good news of Christ."Liz Jans, MEd, LPCLicensed Professional Counselor, Ordained MinisterOwner of Jans Counseling Services, Colorado Springs, CO "Through theological principles and practical concepts, Art does a masterful job of teaching what a healthy Christian marriage looks like. This book would be an excellent tool to help strengthen marriages in your local church."Aaron HlavinNetwork SuperintendentAssemblies of God, Michigan Ministry Network "This is literally the best book I've ever read on the subject of Christ-centered marriage (no exaggeration ). Good News for Your Marriage is filled with faith and hope and drives home this desperately needed revelation: the strength of your marriage is not found in your spouse but in the Lord."Dr. Jamie Morgan, DMinFounder and Director, Trailblazer Mentoring Network "I don't use the word masterpiece often, but this book is simply that-a masterpiece of theology, storytelling, and wisdom. I highly recommend you read and study this book with your spouse and a team of friends."Jim WiegandSenior Pastor, Freedom Center Church, Fenton, MI