In Coming to Terms, A. Emerson Wiens writes from the heart and the mind in understandable language. His goal is to express ideas in ways that are clearly stated and capture the reader's imagination. His writings range from topics that are light (Catfishing, Dog Biscuits) to theological and thought provoking (Questions, The Gift, Modern Deity); from remembering the past (Pictures on the Bedroom Wall, Tribute to Father's Hands) to contemplating the future (Human Evolution, I'm Going to Die); from metaphors of the human condition (Train Whistle in the Night, Redbird in the Window) to a satire describing Sunday Worship; from the fury of nature (Kansas Wind) to the quiet beauty of nature (Morning Solitude, Bluestem). He examines American culture with a critical eye in "Manifest Destiny" and "Accident of Birth." In the "Tributes and End Time" section, he remembers persons important in his life and discusses issues of death and dying including his own anticipated demise. Glimpses of his humor are sprinkled throughout, especially evident in the rhymed children's poems. Looking back over his life, the author comes to terms with his limitations and disappointments, but expresses gratitude for those who contributed to his successes and enriched his life. The author has included 30 pen or pencil sketches to embellish certain poems. There is something for everyone in this collection, and many ideas to attract ones intellect and affection. Gwen Hiebert Schroth, (author of Curry, Corduroy and the Call), in reviewing Coming to Terms and Other Poems, writes: The appeal of this book lies in the author's ability to share the depth of his joys, apprehensions, and sorrows, his courage to confront life's most puzzling questions, and his capacity to marvel at common events, sentiments that others may be unable to put into words or are reluctant to disclose. Yet, it is through these revelations that I find relief and affirmation in discovering that another being shares the doubts that plague my sleep. I also enjoy the voice given to fleeting and whimsical thoughts, such as pleasure that bubbles up upon seeing a bird in the window or peace that comes from sharing a walk with a partner. Emerson Wiens has spent 35 years in higher education teaching, writing, and lecturing on the sociological impacts of technology use on society. At age 52, he enrolled in a creative writing workshop that inspired him to express his thoughts poetically. Now retired, he lives on ten acres of Kansas prairie and woodland.
