The book “Violet Bent Backwards Over The Grass” is a collection of poems by singer Lana Del Ray published in September 2020. It is a collection of 30 poems that all depict some aspect of her life either in the past, present, or future. Not only does it have poems, but it also has many photos she has collected, some of which she took herself.
All of the poems in the book are very good and have deep meanings. My favorite of all the poems in the book is titled “LA Who am I to Love You?” In this poem, Lana addresses LA like it is a person. When reading the poem it seems LA is a father figure, but maybe more of a masculine lover. There are contrasting lines such as “sincerely your daughter,” which makes one think that it is a father figure. There are other lines like, “no one’s ever really held me like you,” which makes one think that LA is a lover. I think that LA is a feeling because she talks about leaving LA and going to San Francisco. I believe that it is a feeling of home and acceptance.
The book has many poems that tell about her life and how she has struggled with her mental health. Some of the poems throughout the book seem to tell a story, but they actually have a deeper meaning. For example, the introduction poem “Violet Bent Backwards Over the Grass” seems like it is about a girl getting ready to watch fireworks. After reading, however, it seems that the story is about being ready for change and having to accept it.
I think the whole book itself is pretty good. Like most poetry, one has to look into the deeper meaning behind each word. Overall, I would suggest the book to anyone; it is a great read. I would give it an 8 out of 10 stars.
