As the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. From first glance of the cover of Teri Ellen Cross Davis’ a more Perfect Union, the themes of the collection shine bright as the author tells of the sensual, bold and unforgiving experiences of growing up Black in America.

Davis interweaves music, motherhood, deities, and sexuality all to discuss challenging the norm found in modern society. From using personal stories to creating goddesses, Davis structures the collection of poems to not only take a look into her life through her eyes but also to break down current political ideologies to bring about change. In “This poem suggests revolution”, the use of Declaration of Independence from the author to scream change and breakdown the systematic racism that many African Americans have experienced in this country.

Teri Ellen Cross Davis’ poetry comes from a place of sincerity and she effortlessly uses music to  describe topics of womanhood, sexuality and more. Her love for Donna Summer in “Bad Girls” & Prince in “Prince Album Cover”, “The First Gospel of Prince” and “The Second Gospel of Prince”, Davis recalls memories of growing up learning life lessons in order to pass down to her children.

Davis’ a more Perfect Union does just as the title states combining personal experiences and views to challenge our thoughts of current issues ongoing in America. Davis invites the readers to join and spark change in the infrastructure of the country to bring about a revolution. She witnesses the beginning of change but in order to be a success, we must keep the conversation going.