Cancer of Love by Jessica Holter

Cancer of Love: Poetry for Lovers and Cynics by Jessica Holter (Ghetto Girl Blue), author of Truth is a Trap House, Speak the Unspeakable, The Punany Experience, and founder of The Punany Poets, delivers a delightfully sensual poetry book about the politics of love. This witty, quick read delves into the raw and unfiltered emotions accompanying love, lust, heartbreak, and personal struggle.

In “Cancer of Love,” Holter masterfully navigates the complexities of romantic entanglements, exposing the vulnerabilities and power dynamics that often lie beneath the surface. Through vivid imagery and poignant metaphors, she captures the essence of love’s darker side, where passion and pain intertwine. From the seedy underbelly of Ghettoville to the bittersweet tales of lost friendships and the intimate moments of self-discovery, each poem offers a unique perspective on the intoxicating allure of love.

Among the standout pieces is “Paul Combs Hair,” a poignant narrative that explores themes of love, care, and the transformative power of intimacy. Holter weaves in elements of spells, witchery, magic, spirituality, and voodoo, adding a mystical layer to her storytelling. The collection culminates in a deeply moving essay, “Fuck Cancer,” where Holter shares her personal battle with the devastating impact of cancer on her life and creativity. This raw and honest account adds a profound layer of depth to the book, making it not just a collection of poems but a testament to resilience and the human spirit.

Whether you’re a lover or a cynic, this collection will resonate with anyone whom the complexities of the human heart have ever ensnared. Holter’s unapologetic voice and evocative storytelling make this a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of love’s many faces.

Sample Poem:

Pimp of Hearts

Love is the pimp of hearts.
In his stable are
Faith, Hope, and Charity.

Faith,
believing,
despite evidence.

Hope,
springs
from Love’s beheaded corpse.

Charity,
selfless,
sacrificial to a flaw,
blows the breath of life
into the kingpin
so he can peddle
Faith, Hope, and Charity again.

After all,
they are a team.