The Rose That Grew From Concrete by Tupac Amaru Shakur is undeniably filled with beautiful poetry. Its ability to be fully acknowledged as an ethereal read is questionable but there is no denying the art Tupac left behind with his words. Keep reading to learn more about the man who painted vivid images within a few short stanzas.
Overall Ethereal Score:
Originality 3.5/5
Believability 3.5/5
Escapism 3/5
= 10/15
I have never been the biggest fan of poetry as a young reader. However, now that I am an adult I am able to enjoy this form of expressive writing (Expressive writing is personal and emotional writing without regard to punctuation, verb agreement, or other technical aspects of writing). I would recommend Tupac’s words for people like myself who either have not really had an opportunity to enjoy poetry recently, want to get back into poetry, or simply enjoy the headspace his poetry will put you in. The poems take on various themes, the harsh realities of a Black man in America, the daily struggles we face simply existing, and my personal favorites, poems about love.
Now, if there is one thing Tupac Amaru Shakur is going to do is write a poem that will make a woman feel some type of way. The name he addressed the poem to is clearly legible at the top of the page, but I actively replaced their name with mine. These poems made me feel something so profound and warm inside. I could do nothing but smile while reading his words. In a way, it’s a reminder that this rose that grew from concrete is still made of lush, smooth, and beautiful petals. The beauty of love, attention, affection, and falling for someone.
| H.O.B (highlights of the book) |
| the poetry book includes images of his writing as well as the printed words, so if a stanza is hard to make out from his hand writing, it is printed clearly. |
| a short read, I finished it in less than 2 hours. |
| he makes cultural references of ethnically diverse icons so it forces you to remember or research who he is referring to, which I really enjoyed. |
| expressive, vivid, and imaginative metaphors, analogies, and connections. Pure art. |
Since finishing the book, I find myself replaying his poems in my head. Is it ethereal? Not exactly. But with artistic expression comes the ability to be multi-faceted and raw; not allowing you to escape your reality for the entire ride but for a little while.
Happy reading friends.
Love,
– E
