Song and Dance

Exploring the profound emotions surrounding grief, Alan Shapiro's collection delves into the complex feelings experienced during the terminal illness of his brother, David, an actor diagnosed with brain cancer. The poems capture a raw and intimate journey through the final months of David's life, addressing often-overlooked emotions such as horror, relief, and self-criticism. Shapiro's work offers a candid reflection on the multifaceted nature of loss, revealing the tumultuous yet transformative experience of mourning.