Reviewed by Alice H. for Readers' Favorite

"Instant Poetry" by Larry Berger is an interesting concept. At interactive poetry readings, listeners in the audience would call out topics and the author would then put the topic into words. It seems that almost any word or concept is fair game. There are poems having to do with stuck gum, frog lips, ghost movies, rock stars, green tea and ice cream, kumquats freedom and yellow arm chairs.

One of the most poignant poems for this reader is the one entitled 'Four Thousand Years Ago: The Crack Baby's Prayer'. For something made up instantly simply by suggestion, the poem is a piece of literary art. Others such as a 'four alarm burrito' and 'sunflower' appear to be a bit of a stretch. And yet, if we as readers were to attempt to create poetry from common (or uncommon) words, it is likely that we would falter whereas Larry Berger has succeeded. He takes a word, develops a concept and puts together thoughts, feelings and behaviors to which most of us can relate. In the poem 'Hats', the author has captured a sign of the cultural times.

There is talent in the words of Larry Berger. One really has to wonder at the level of his poetry if he were simply to sit, ponder and then write his mental reflections. As it stands, "Instant Poetry" is a delight to read and appears to be one of those books you just might want to keep on your bookshelf for when the right occasion arises - such as when you might happen upon a frog.