Chico Poet Reflects on Life and New Beginnings in New Collection
Chico poet and retired Butte College instructor Phillip Hemenway has released a new poetry collection titled Core Samples: Poems, which reflects on life, memory, and the passage of time. With a backdrop of personal experiences and significant historical events, Hemenway’s work invites readers to explore both the past and the promise of the future as the New Year approaches.
In his poem about New Year’s Day, Hemenway captures a moment of clarity and connection with nature. He writes, “the day/ standing sharp and clear/ in invitation to a California/ walk despite the glassy wind/ nipping hard from the north.” This imagery sets the tone for a contemplative journey that he shares throughout the collection.
The book, priced at $15 and self-published, is available at local venues including The Bookstore in downtown Chico and the Museum of Northern California Art located at 900 The Esplanade.
As Hemenway takes stock of his life through various experiences, he recounts visits to places such as the San Diego Zoo and a train ride across the United States. He reflects on the sights and sounds of these journeys, noting, “There is no snow/ this year there is/ no snow in Colorado.” Such observations blend personal reflection with broader themes, creating a tapestry of memories that resonate with readers.
Death and loss emerge as recurring themes in the collection, particularly in a sonnet sequence dedicated to Hemenway’s grandfather, Merle, who passed away in 1985. The poet grapples with the legacy of war in his reflections on the Vietnam Memorial, stating, “I must claim my war the one/ I did not choose to fight in.” His poignant exploration of grief is underscored by a powerful connection to history and the struggles of those who came before him.
Throughout his work, Hemenway emphasizes the shared human experience. He poignantly notes, “All of us are fatally human. We must never rush out to prove it,” suggesting a call for introspection and understanding in a complex world.
As he looks toward the future, Hemenway imagines a time when he will embrace the joy of new beginnings. He writes, “And so at some distant New Year,/ I will walk all the dogs I’ve ever known,/ I will step out of my ancient shoes,/ I will find a rope swing and work myself/ into a spectacular blue-toed arc.” This hopeful vision encapsulates the essence of renewal and the eternal cycle of life.
Readers can find Hemenway’s Core Samples: Poems not only as a collection of verse but as a reflection on existence itself. As the New Year approaches, his work serves as a reminder of the beauty found in both our memories and the promise of what lies ahead.
