Welcome to chapter 31 of the book column. If students have ever turned down a book of poetry because of the stereotype of poetry as old and stuffy, they should give "Bone House" a try.
“Bone House” by Scott Laudati was released on March 11, 2018, through publisher Bone Machine Books. It is an unconventional book of poetry that may interest students because of its contemporary themes that include celebrities, dogs, drugs and faith.
Laudati graduated from Ramapo College in New Jersey with a degree in journalism. Now, he is earning his master's degree in English from the City College in New York.
“College is the best time of your life," Laudati said. "Join all the clubs. Hang out with your professors. Don’t put anything off."
Laudati took his own advice to not put anything off by publishing three books while in college.
Laudati has also written the novel “Play the Devil” and the poetry collection “Hawaiian Shirts in the Electric Chair."
“I don’t really get writer’s block yet," Laudati said. "I still have too much to say.”
Many students view the stereotypical poet as an old, dead man, so Laudati excites the industry with his edgy poetry.
While Laudati’s other books are about personal demons and societal issues, "Bone House" is written about New York and Laudati’s experience of it.
“The streets, the people, the food and all the jobs I’ve had to work to pay my rent,” Laudati said.
Other themes in the book come from Laudati’s experience of standing in a hotel lobby and watching life pass by.
Laudati said his favorite poem in the collection is the first one, “Something Like Love.” This poem is about a time in Laudati’s life that he wished he could do over and be a better person for a girl who deserved more.
In addition to the poetry book, Laudati created a music video to go along with one of his poems, “Buffalo Blues.” This video includes a compilation of shots that show New York City and a woman writing a note while spoken word is played over music.
Through all the rhyme schemes and stanzas, Laudati hopes his readers learn that it is better to read a book than a phone. However, this video is a new way to consume poetry that ties technology to writing.
Spoken word has gained traction over the past few years as an art form, but Laudati’s book and video is an example of where the genre is headed.
“Bone House” is available on Amazon for $7 in paperback and $3 on Kindle. Students looking to expand their poetry repertoire can find new age ideas on poetry in Laudati's book and possibly some inspiration for their own lyric writings.
