i gained alot of inspiration from this book.

I think I need to read it again to get the full impact. Kinda weird watching a loving relationship fall apart when you yourself are in a loving relationship not without faults. [though we both read it and stayed together, so that’s a good sign!] [this is an old review, we did end up not together...what says this?] Also-beautiful art between chapters. Wish it hadn’t been black and white and photocopied.

I enjoyed this and really wish I can could give it a higher rating but this is my first venture into poetry. It can be hard sometimes to interpret the symbolism and metaphors that are being used. While I was able to pick up what Williams was trying to portray it took me almost to the end for it all to click into place for me. I would like to read more of his work though because it was still very beautiful poetry.

“you are nothing
to be afraid of
yet i fear
your presence
and what you symbolize”

“i want to be
the one she calls
on her cigarette break
not the cause of it”

*two years later, and upon second read- maybe because of the poetry I've been exposed to, it seems these poems are growing distant from me and I like them less.

*first time through: The first thing that drew me to She was the cover. I thought it was a beautiful concept. This is a very up close and personal account of a growing distance in a relationship. I'm not sure I understood quite what I was getting myself into when I first picked up the book. Saul's words are very much alive and in constant movement. It is very striking that he was able to represent both masculinity and femininity, the recognition of he and she: he is the root of she. It is through this suffering he is able to speak, to live again. She is not an enemy, she is the purpose. She is the cause for such intensity and raw emotion. I believe this is my favorite:

i presented
my feminine side
with flowers

she cut the stems
and placed them gently
down my throat

and these tu lips
might soon eclipse
your brightest hopes

It took me a minute to get into it, but overall, I enjoyed this book.
I'd love to hear the poetry read out loud.

I've been intrigued by Saul Williams ever since the First time I saw him in Slam. After his performance in the movie I immediately googled more about him. Found, bought and read "she" and instantly fell into the book! I carry it around with me in my bag So whenever im in need of reading one of his pieces, it's not that faraway. a few of his poems hits me right in the chest and i Feel every line ! He has since been added onto my Favorite poets lists from this book alone!

an artist i respect, modern day slam poetry.

true. vivid. raw. other times personal, too personal, so personal it is directed and meant for one singular person excluding the reader. however, being a fly on saul's wall is a interesting place to chill. i'll kick it there anyday on his shit.

Love glows in the Dark

I came across this collection outside a (closed) library on the lip of Victoria Park. I had 0 context when diving it but thoroughly enjoyed the voice on display.

I have learned that Williams is also predominately a musician, and I look forward to delving into his discography as well as any further literature.

The weatherbeaten copy I obtained is signed by Saul Williams - a gratifying surprise!

"she stuck a bookmark
in my heart
and walked away"

Those were the words I first read by Saul Williams and when I did, I immediately knew that I had to read more. I don't usually read poetry but I'm really glad I read this book. It's so pretty and his words are so fragile, filled with love, even if his relationship with "She" seems to be falling apart.

I really liked how the poems varied in length too but I also didn't understand some things. However, while reading this, I had to stop at some parts and just let the words sink in. I also took photos with my phone of different parts and sent them to my friends because I had to share his words. I'm definitely interested in reading more of his work but all I know is that I don't want to be alone with this book.