I quite liked the (title) heart cycle, the deer, the fish, the mule, and a few scattered others - those with quietude or seeking now-ness, those meeting grief head-on. Others read more like standard love poems. Of course we can never like all of a poet's work just the same, and those will be someone else's favorites. ( )

I discovered this poet in college during a Contemporary Poetry course, and immediately fell in love with the way she talked about love, loss, and the pain of trying to move slowing through grief. I was no stranger to grief myself; my best friend from high school had just passed away and so had my beloved grandmother, both from cancer. I found special comfort in the lines of "Da Capo" as the poet blended simple acts like cooking as ways to "begin again the story of your life" ( )

Loved this book so much. She set the bar high for me and I compare a lot of poetry I've read since to the feelings and imagery that reading this collection evoked in me.

The author writes beautifully about the heart as the centre of as well as a metaphor for everything else in life. ( )

I love this book and am currently re-reading my autographed copy. These poems are gorgeous--I love Hirshfield's imaginings of heart. My favorite poem, which I have memorized and am currently reciting to myself, is Da Capo. "Begin again the story of your life." I need to hear these words over and over. Their cadence is comforting and strong. ( )