Rhythm & Breath is short, only eight poems in total, culled from various pocks of the writer’s work over the last two years. But Bongard’s emerging skill does indeed shine through. In some ways his composition is typical of modern free-verse poetry, but where others may allow their imagery to float free with only the most tenuous connection to the subject of the poem, Bongard remains down to earth. It’s an effective technique, particularly when combined with his talent for finding rhythm in the absence of meter–that’s a trick that many poets attempt, but few can pull off consistently. Most of the poems here express concern for finding one’s place in relation to history, and I think that Bongard could very well find his own place in Canada’s poetry culture if he continues to produce at this level. (Richard Rosenbaum)
poetry zine, Konrad Bongard, Free