Critical Commentary
Comments on Canyon Notes, Mt. Sneffels Press, 2012
“In this new collection, Beth Paulson’s proficiency in the craft of poetry shines—whether in free verse or in form. This poet has her finger firmly on the pulse of nature—and human nature. With nods to Kinnell, Millay, Rumi, Whitman and others, Canyon Notes is intriguing, moving, and intelligent.”
Cynthia Brackett-Vincent, Publisher/Editor the Aurorean.
“In her latest collection, Canyon Notes, Beth Paulson spills enthralling words and unexpected images that repeatedly strike the eye and resonate chords deep in the reader’s imagination.”
Mark Todd, Western State Colorado University
Comments on Wild Raspberries (Plain View Press, 2009)
"Wild Raspberries is a poetry of plain talk with images from the countryside and family life. Crisp and clear, these poems by Beth Paulson often have the feeling of haiku. Their task is truly 'seeing' the world, a world far from cities and today's turmoil, for their author seeks respite in reflection on nature. An epigraph that opens one poem, 'A poem is a walk' (A. R. Ammons) expresses the books' philosophy as the poet invites us to join her in seeking the 'comfort of stones; and the lessons of the fox."
-
Mary Crow, Former Colorado Poet Laureate
"Beth Paulson's poems are a kind of stillness, a quietly examined life in lines as clear as a mountain stream. 'How will we be changed?' she asks at one point. 'Will the world?' This welcome collection is her earned reply.”
-
David Mason, Professor English, The Colorado College
