Ring Finger, Left Hand

Book excerpt: Speaking alternately as daughter, lover, wife, mother, Katherine Lawrence addresses the turmoil of a gender trying to define itself within its designation as protector and nurturer of others. Juxtaposing disappointment with hope, expectation with realization, these poems explore the circle of life and the bonds of family, portraying them as alternately fragile and strong. Using language both precise and persuasive, Lawrence skillfully utilizes the voice of parent, child, friend, to examine the blurry line between giving too much and not giving enough, and ultimately, the consequences of each.