One of the strengths of this collection is its ability to capture the emotional complexity of life in a way that is both relatable and deeply moving. Csaba's poetry is full of vivid imagery and powerful metaphors that invite readers to explore their own emotions and experiences. Whether he is writing about the fleeting beauty of a sunset or the enduring power of love, Csaba's words are infused with a sense of wonder and awe.

Another standout feature of "Musings of A Mad Hungarian" is its intimate portrayal of the author's life. Through his poetry, Csaba offers readers a glimpse into his personal journey, from his childhood in Hungary to his career as a physician in the United States. His experiences as a refugee and a foreigner are a recurring theme in the collection, and his reflections on these topics are poignant and thought-provoking.

Overall, "Musings of A Mad Hungarian" is a deeply moving and beautifully crafted collection of poetry. Csaba Méra's ability to capture the complexities of life in a way that is both personal and universal is truly remarkable. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a thoughtful and engaging exploration of the human experience.

If  one had to pick a favorite, it would be the very first poem "Attila is Born" which uses a unique and unconventional writing style to create a vivid and powerful image of a newborn's emergence into the world. The author employs descriptive language and imagery to convey the visceral experience of childbirth, using sensory details such as "black hair glistening" and "agonal moans" to create a sense of immediacy and realism.

The poem's use of short, choppy sentences and fragmented phrases gives it a staccato rhythm that mimics the violent and chaotic nature of birth. The repetition of certain phrases, such as "Into the cold, uncaring world" and "From the amniotic fluids that had filled his lungs," emphasizes the stark contrast between the safety of the womb and the harsh reality of the outside world.

In addition, the poem uses a mix of formal and informal language to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The use of the second-person pronoun "you" makes the reader feel as if they are witnessing the birth firsthand, while the use of more technical medical terms such as "portal of the birth canal" and "vulva" lends a sense of clinical detachment that contrasts with the emotional intensity of the scene.

It is a vivid and visceral poem that describes the experience of childbirth, capturing the pain and struggle of a mother and her child. The imagery is graphic and evocative, painting a picture of a violent and intense birth. The poem then turns its attention to the newborn child, who is thrust into the world with no say in the matter. The message of the poem is clear: life is full of uncertainty and peril, and we have no control over the circumstances of our birth. The final lines suggest that Attila, the titular newborn, is destined for greatness, which adds a hopeful note to an otherwise somber poem. The poem's unique style and use of descriptive language create a powerful and memorable image of a newborn's emergence into the world. Despite the graphic and somewhat unsettling subject matter, the poem ultimately leaves the reader with a sense of awe and wonder at the miracle of birth and the resilience of the human spirit.

The second poem, Altar Boy, is a nostalgic and wistful poem that reflects on the experience of growing up Catholic. The poem's protagonist is an altar boy, who is depicted as both confident and fearful, obedient and rebellious. The poem touches on themes of faith, obedience, and doubt, and explores the tension between tradition and individuality. While the poem is personal in nature, it touches on universal themes that many people can relate to. The poem ends on a note of gratitude, with the protagonist acknowledging the role that religion played in his upbringing, even as he moves away from it.

Tanks is a haunting and powerful poem that describes the experience of living under an oppressive regime. The poem is set during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and paints a picture of the violence and brutality that accompanied the Soviet crackdown. The poem is told from the perspective of a young boy, who watches as the tanks roll through his town, and is filled with a sense of both fear and defiance. The poem captures the sense of helplessness that comes with living under a dictatorship, and the sacrifices that people must make in order to survive. The final lines suggest that hope is still possible, even in the darkest of times.

These poems are diverse in their subject matter and style, but they all share a sense of emotional intensity and a willingness to grapple with difficult topics. They are well-written and engaging and offer a glimpse into the human experience from different angles.

While the poems deal with highly fragile subject matters as well, the author leaves the reader with the gift of hope. The last four poems are a testament to that and a wonder unto themselves.

"Sincere" is a powerful poem that urges readers to reexamine their lives and embrace a more honest and authentic way of being. The poem encourages us to let go of the materialistic desires and societal pressures that can prevent us from truly experiencing the joy and wonder of life. Instead, it inspires us to seek out new experiences and to live with sincerity and hope.

"Daring" is a beautiful poem that celebrates the power of perseverance and the importance of kindness, love, and compassion. The poem acknowledges the challenges and failures that we all face in life, but ultimately, it is a message of hope and optimism. The poem encourages us to continue striving for the things we believe in and to share our kindness and compassion with others.

"May Evening" is a vivid and atmospheric poem that captures the beauty and serenity of a spring evening. The imagery in the poem is evocative, and the poem transports the reader to a world of peaceful contemplation and hopeful possibility. The poem reminds us to appreciate the simple beauty of the world around us and to find hope and joy in the small things.

"Hope at the End" is a thought-provoking poem that encourages readers to confront the reality of death and find comfort in the knowledge that we are all part of a larger cycle of existence. The poem acknowledges the various beliefs and faiths that people hold, but ultimately, it is a message of acceptance and peace. The poem reminds us that even in the face of death, we can find hope and meaning in the knowledge that we are part of something greater than ourselves.

On the whole, these parting poems by Csaba Méra are moving and thought-provoking, with messages of hope, perseverance, and the beauty of life.

To conclude, the poems in Csaba Méra's "Musings of A Mad Hungarian" offer a unique and insightful perspective on life, and I cannot deny the author's talent for exploring complex philosophical concepts in an artistic and inspiring way.

One of the standout features of the book is the author's ability to capture the many different aspects of life, from the joys and sorrows of human relationships to the mysteries of the universe and the nature of existence itself. Through his poetry, Csaba explores the nature of time, the meaning of reality, and the inevitability of death, all while maintaining a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty and complexity of the world.

At the same time, Csaba's poetry also serves as a call to unity and compassion. The author's recognition of our shared existence on a small planet in the vastness of space should serve as a reminder to put aside our differences and work together for the greater good.

Overall, this wonderful collection of poems has undoubtedly left its mark on me and will inevitably inspire fellow readers to reflect on their own lives and find deeper meaning and purpose.

An anonymous friend.