“SONNETS FOR MOTHERHOOD” written by DR. KALTUME AKUBO is a collection of poems which explores the deliberate, tactful and profound appreciation into the many layers and phases of motherhood enhanced with the art of colourful stories. The energy of these stories live through the sincerity of 51 amazing poems that capture the raw moments of motherhood through a range of emotions and stylistic devices. From start to finish, we are absorbed into a refreshing world of colourful imagery, deep metaphors and a descriptive flow of spontaneity embracing the themes of Motherhood in great detail.
“SONNETS FOR MOTHERHOOD” is a raw celebration of beautiful moments, new awakenings, revelations and profound experiences that paint the joy and precious essence of what motherhood constitutes through a very convincing verse form. What is also deeply fascinating is that in the very first poem of this collection , titled I don’t understand unfolds with the theme of innocence and a new beginning into a journey of life Lessons.
In my view, it is relevant to have this poem as the first poem of the collection, as we begin a journey into the exposure of nurturing and becoming a mother. In The Joys of Motherhood ( the second poem ), we embrace the sequence of more happy beginnings with a depth of imagery, metaphors and stylistic devices.
Dawn’s first light, Warm embrace and Laughter all denote a positive radiance of joy and the priceless blessing which unfold with motherhood. This is perhaps one of my favourite poems, so much is said and so many emotions come into play. The tone takes a new energy and reflection in the poem The memory of healing (Birth Pangs) and more profound sub-themes unfold. The title speaks for itself as we witness a journey and exposure into motherhood which was not always smooth.
The spirit of perseverance has a profound role to play in this journey with repeated emphasis on Scars Birth pangs and the need to heal. Regardless, there is an inner strength not only to face each day and preserve, but also to embrace and attract the fruits of being in a “rightful place” and feeding through ”lasting joy“.
The positive transition of Motherhood continues to unfold in the poem First day at School. This is also the dawn of another journey into the school of more mental and physical preparation. Emotions unfold into more descriptive imagery ”I open my eyes to see light streaming through window blinds” and once again the poet tells an intense story through well crafted analogies of not just Window blinds but of life, new doors, new ways of looking at things and a new presence to the earth .
There is a more spiritual tone in the poem Sonnets of Matriarchs and the legacies that have existed from time through tales, songs, folklore and the written scripts from generations.
Every stanza of this beautiful collection breathes with purpose and stories from the heart feeding the world with the essence of Motherhood with a craft which is creative and deliberate.
In my view, it is also a call for the celebration of mothers and their stories of triumph, as well as all the beautiful facets which come with personal growth. The tone, the energy, the metaphors, as well as the variety of transition and stories are beautiful expressed with an unforgettable energy. This collection stands out as a beautiful read for literary audiences around the world and an inspiration to women.
Sonnets for Motherhood is no doubt a creative masterpiece that celebrates the essence and all the positive shades of Motherhood in all it’s beautiful stages.
Poems from Kaltume Akubo on Teambooktu
Sonnets for Motherhood is available at our Bookshop.
Tony Tokunbo Eteka Fernandez
Tony is an international award winner, published author & poet, events consultant , MC and freelance digital marketing strategist. He is also the Founder of AFRICA4U ASSOCIATION. Tony has won over 20 awards, visited over 30 Countries and written and published four books including The Good, The Bad, and The Naughty and 50 Reasons to Live. Born in London and originally from Nigeria, Tony was named “An Ambassador for Peace” for The Universal Peace Federation in London. He has also organized The Black History Month Celebrations at The UK House of Parliament every year since 2013. Tony was inducted into The Nigerian Diaspora Global Hall of Fame as one of the most productive Nigerians in the Diaspora. He has also spent time as an International broadcaster and was The Producer and Presenter for AFRICA4U International Radio Talk Show at Reading4u Radio Station for nearly three years.
