ENLIGHTENED CONTINUUM:
249 Topics Illuminated by a Trio of Lanturnes
by Donald Alan Straub III

The formidable third and final book in the Lake Parking Trilogy, ENLIGHTENED CONTINUUM, is a collection of lanturne poems that when written on the page look to be in the shape of lanterns in using their 1-2-3-4-1 syllables per line structure. A trio of lanturnes are used to illuminate each of the 249 topics.  

The book is about youth and their search for understanding, their inquisitive nature, their desire to conquer, and sometimes being trampled upon. It draws upon the dark and light of life, taking notice of ideas both small and large. It is a way of working toward balance. These poems are food for thought, combining the yesterday and today as indicators of tomorrow’s trajectory. They are slices of time that allow us to contemplate. It is specifically about people who inspire me and issues that excite or trouble me. I draw material from the day’s headlines and pop culture. Some themes are uncomplicated, and others are heavy in nature. The poems are candid in language and play out against the backdrop of history. It is about capturing the subject in a straightforward manner, bringing a clear focus to the work. The goal is to get back in touch with our greater humanity. 

Title: Enlightened Continuum:
249 Topics Illuminated by a Trio of Lanturnes
Author: Donald Alan Straub III
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1664133174
Genre: Poetry/Photography
Pages: 304
Reviewed by: Anthony Avina

It is often said that the future resides with our world�s youth. The world must be protected and cared for, as the youth are the ones who will one day inherit the world we provide them. As Tom Mann once said, �The future of the world belongs to the youth of the world, and it is from the youth and not from the old that the fire of life will warm and enlighten the world. It is your privilege to breathe the breath of life into the dry bones of many around you.�

In author Donald Alan Straub III�s Enlightened Continuum: 249 Topics Illuminated by a Trio of Lanturnes, the author completes a trilogy known as the Lake Parking Trilogy. This third book of poetry utilizing lanturne poems, a five-line verse shaped to look like a Japanese lantern, the author and poet relates the trials and triumphs of youth. From the desire to conquer their obstacles and sometimes failing, to seeking understanding of their place in the world and to learn more about the world as a whole, these poems seek to utilize the past and the present to get a glimpse at the path towards the future.

A beautifully written book of poetry, Donald Alan Straub III does an excellent job of delving into a unique form of poetry that captures reader�s attention both through the poems themselves and the unique imagery utilized throughout. The work of photographer Francisca Shannon Bouchée-Flores is a welcome addition to this book, as her photographs perfectly compliment and enrich the already emotional and moral aspects of the author�s work. Poems such as �Skyscrapers� and �Knowledge� to �Integrity� and �An Appreciation� blend the life lessons discovered as youths and real- world events to showcase the impact that growing up has on us all, lessons sometimes lost as the years go by, and in hopes of rediscovering what makes us human after all.

This is the perfect read for those who enjoy poetry, in particular unique and creative forms of poetry that highlight the powerful combination of the written word and imagery found in this book. As a fan of poetry, I felt both moved and motivated by the works of the author and photographer respectively, as they touched upon moments of my own youth and experiences, from poems like �Slurpee� to �Freeway Overpasses� and more bringing back a flood of memories.

A passionately-written, heartfelt and evenly-paced read, author Donald Alan Straub III�s Enlightened Continuum: 249 Topics Illuminated by a Trio of Lanturnes is a must-read book of poetry, especially as we head towards the end of the year and are looking forward to the future. A new year looms, and this book does an excellent job of connecting young generations to their own futures, highlighting the need to learn and grow and discover for themselves what it means to be human.