Thank you so much to the author for the gifted copy!

Therapy Session: Poems from the Black Hole in My Chest by M.D. Robins is a poignant and introspective collection that delves into the complexities of mental illness, disability, queerness, and nonbinary identity. Through their raw and candid verses, Robins navigates the turbulent waters of trauma, seeking understanding and healing. This debut collection is a testament to the cathartic power of poetry, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the speaker's struggle to reconcile with their past and find a semblance of peace.

Robins's writing style is characterized by its vulnerability and intimacy. The use of free verse and minimalist language creates a confessional tone that invites readers to connect with the speaker’s emotional landscape. The poems are filled with evocative imagery and deliberate word choice, highlighting the stark contrasts between hope and despair. In lines like "Can I talk to myself? / No, / I don’t want to hear from me either," the poet captures the pervasive sense of self-doubt and inner conflict that permeates the collection.

The themes of Therapy Session revolve around trauma, self-exploration, and the struggle for healing. Robins delves into the pain of personal suffering, the quest for self-acceptance, and the impact of social expectations on a neurodivergent, queer person with chronic illness. The poems reflect a journey through darkness, acknowledging the weight of emotional scars while tentatively reaching for moments of clarity and hope. The recurring motifs of loneliness, identity, and resilience underscore the poet’s ongoing battle with self-doubt and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.

Therapy Session is a powerful debut collection that leaves a lasting impact. Poems like "Childish," "Surrender," and "Red Hair" stand out, resonating deeply thanks to Robins’s blend of vulnerability and strength. These poems are a celebration of the validating power of art, whether in its creation or consumption. This collection is a must-read for anyone seeking an authentic and emotive exploration of trauma and healing. I eagerly anticipate M.D. Robins’s next book, as their voice is a crucial addition to the literary landscape.

📖 Recommended For: Readers who resonate with introspective and raw poetry, those interested in exploring the intersections of mental illness, queerness, and disability, anyone who values heartfelt and candid reflections on trauma and healing.

🔑 Key Themes: Trauma and Healing, Self-Exploration and Identity, Mental Illness and Disability, Queerness and Nonbinary Identity, Resilience and Hope.

Content / Trigger Warnings: Expertly provided by the author in the introduction!