Wind in the Elephant Tree

The book title, Wind in the Elephant Tree, traces to a time when, at age 20, I rough-necked my way through wilderness deserts of Mexico with several friends. I came to realize that although I was strong, reasonably good-looking and becoming well educated, I could perish in the desert and no one would care except ants, vultures and maybe my younger sister. The realization that neither I, nor anyone else, is the center of the universe has never faded.

Review by LB Sedlacek

"Wind in the Elephant Tree" could be seen somewhat as a poem novel what with its combination of poetry, prose and photos all combined into a literary adventure of sorts of the author. The book weaves a captivating narrative that combines elements of coming-of-age and experiences and revelations to transport the reader into de Berge's world.

The author creates a unique consciousness to render thought provoking verses, stories and text. His own encounter with an elephant tree sets the spark for his discoveries and serves as the inspiration behind the book. The author states "The book title, Wind in the Elephant Tree, traces a time when, at age 20, I rough-necked my way through wilderness deserts of Mexico with several friends. I came to realize that although I was strong, reasonably good-looking and becoming well educated, I could perish in the desert and no one would care except ants, vultures and maybe my younger sister. The realization that neither I, nor anyone else, is the center of the universe has never faded."

He compares this realization to the elephant tree. The tree, which is a real type of tree, is seen quite often in the desert, it often appears as a staple in movies and tv shows set in the same region, and it is ultimately a tough but also beautiful survivor. The book is, according to the author, "a journey to find the meaning of love in my life."

One of the aspects of the book that really stands out is the author's capabilities to build his world within the pages using mostly words along with some visuals to bring his vision to life. He uses intricate details and rich writing skills to achieve this.

From the poem "IN MUTED WAYS":

"Petite yellow flower petals

nestled beside a blue sage bush

caught my eye some 50 years ago

and still draw me among photo

memories of our early years.

Its species name is unknown to me

unless cherubic buttercup will do."

It's easy to become immersed in this transformation from curious to compassionate. There is so much depth and sensitivity shown in each well thought out line. All of which continues with the placement of each piece within each chapter of the book.

"Wind in the Elephant Tree" is a gorgeously put together piece. It blends reality into a heartfelt tale that leaves a lasting as well as encouraging impression.

~LB Sedlacek is the author of several books of poetry including "The Poet Next Door," "Simultaneous Submissions," "I'm No Robot," "Swim," and "Words and Bones." Her recent short stories collections is "Motor Addiction & The Renovator" and her poem novel is "The Blue Eyed Side."