PoetryReviews

The Dream Must Die – Book Review

by Jacob Davies 

I love poetry and if there is one thing I get excited about instantly, it’s the chance to read a new collection of poetry, especially from modern indie poets. I received an ARC of The Dream Must Die by Jacob Davies and I am so excited to tell you all about it!

First, this is a brilliantly written book of poems that explores the darkest aspects of human existence without holding back. Davies is well-known for his direct and frequently sardonic tone. He is skilled at fusing humor with profoundly depressing observations, which makes this book both thought-provoking and intensely emotional.

This book is an upcoming release scheduled for launch on November 28, 2024. You can preorder your copy now from a variety of retailers.

The book is split into two main parts – A and B. Within each of these parts, we find poems on a variety of subjects. Rich in theme, The Dream Must Die is a moving contemplation on the complexities of existence. Readers are taken on a voyage through a variety of emotional landscapes by Davies, from joy to despair.

Here’s a sample from one of my favorites, The Language of Flowers:

I don’t belong.
Where daffodils wait until
William’s been and gone.


I don’t belong.
I’m on the mend, I now only spend
Tuesdays in the shed.


What do friends look like?
Carnations seem to know their faces
And all the days they’ve wasted.

Anyone who has ever felt torn between personal desire and society standards would be able to relate to his examination of societal pressures associated with marriage and family life. Poems that capture the conflict between romantic aspiration and reality, such as Your Wedding Day and Engaged at Nineteen, are particularly noteworthy for their honest portrayals of love.

I found so much of this relatable! But the thing is, wherever you currently are in life, I think that you will also. The collection’s main themes are nostalgia and introspection, with Davies providing observations on the passing of time and unavoidable loss – things we all experience. Sometimes even the simplest of words can paint such a vivid picture and this is how I felt reading this collection of poetry.

His ability to imbue ordinary events with a sad beauty is demonstrated in Hugs at the Station and Quarry Hill, which prompt readers to reflect on their own past experiences. His distinct voice comes through, especially in poems where he deftly examines the intricacies of relationships and human nature, such as Dear Shauna and Mother of the Accused. I kept thinking about these poems long after I had put the book down. I also think this is one I would read over and over again, gleaning something new with each pass.

Davies explores rhythm and form in addition to emotion throughout the poems in this book. His views are ruthlessly honest, his wit dry, and his poetry keen. Davies never falters in his authenticity, whether he is exploring the complexities of love or contemplating the conflict between individual desire and social expectations. In short, if you want poetry to make you think and feel, this is it.

You’ll be challenged and moved by Davies’ portrayal of life in all its complexity – messy, beautiful, and frequently heartbreaking – in The Dream Must Die. This compilation is a must-have for anyone who enjoys poetry that is both emotionally and intellectually compelling. It’s 5 stars from me and I’m also interested in reading the author’s other poetry books now.

Jacob Davies is a performance poet from West Yorkshire. He has previously published two collections of poetry ‘The Things They’ve Never Seen’ (2020) and ‘Every Night is November’ (2022).

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