"In and Out of the Shadows" a review
Rsknol
A review by Lily Knol
When I bought this book, I must confess, I expected the usual collection of
wonderful photographs coupled with not nearly enough backstage stories and
personal anecdotes to satisfy me. No apologies; I am an unabashed admirer of
David Selby and have been for thirty some years. The photos are wonderful, as I
had expected, but the poetry composed by Mr. Selby is a revelation.
The sly humor that characterizes the "Dark Shadows" poem is delightful; a gift
to loyal fans everywhere, and a true measure of the man himself. "The Road of
Happenstance" is a simple and unstintingly honest statement of one man's
philosophy. In all of his writings therein,
Selby displays profound self-knowledge, which makes his poetry a joy to read,
for fans as well as students of the human condition. There is a universality
inherent in his work that speaks to all who struggle to live with grace and
dignity in an absurd world. The poem entitled "Child of The Fifties"
establishes his priorities and is a reflection of a man who loves and is
beloved; "My Album" demonstrates that he has the sense to be grateful for that.
I especially appreciate "Mutineers" for its insightful and deeply emotional
tone regarding the value of friendships kept; Mr Selby would have won my heart
with this one, had he not already been in possession of it!
When writing about his career, Selby's voice becomes somewhat more wry, but
no less engaging. In "Head Shots", "Tree of Life", and "Gonna Sit and Watch the
Seasons Roll By" he illustrates with devastating accuracy the capricious,
sometimes cruel, and always subjective macrocosm which he has trod lightly and
with grace throughout his life as an actor. In "Teacher" he reveals his heart's
home to be the stage, and generously bestows his appreciation upon said lucky
tenth grade teacher who provided him with the inspiration to follow that heart.
David Selby is a poet; no scholarly explication is required to prove that. The
offerings in this volume are extraordinary; I fervently hope someone can
convince Mr. Selby to publish an anthology of his work aimed at the general
public. His quietly eloquent voice is one that should be harkened to.