“Postcards to Herself” by Laura Stamps reminds me of Emily Dickinson’s “Envelope Poems,” where she used the same prose poetry style in her letters. In “Postcards to Herself,” Laura Stamps experiments with prose and poetry in an innovative narrative style that does not follow a traditional narrative structure. Instead, it unfolds as a series of evocative vignettes written in postcards addressed to the protagonist, Elaine, from herself.
Here, postcards are mediums of expression that serve as snapshots of Elaine’s life, her thoughts, feelings, and relationships with the world around her, particularly with her cute Yorkie, Holly. Every postcard bears a slice of her life, a piece of collage that is different and distinct yet important to complete the image of life. Like small chapters, postcards range from light-hearted musings to deeper reflections on past relationships and personal growth. She contemplates on dog magazines, screaming sirens, tiny Chihuahuas in the red wagon, grocery shopping day, a neighbour’s eccentric fashion choice, memory of a childhood toy, walking with her dog in the park or going on a long drive singing loud. She describes her breathing exercises as per the instructions of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, her blind dates planned by her friends, encounters with strangers, shopping Christmas sweater for Holly in the PetSmart or meeting someone who cannot have dogs for her allergy. Elaine suggests “Hypoallergenic dogs”. Is not it witty? Elaine’s love for Holly is a special tribute to the dog lovers. Holy embodies the warmth and comfort of companionship throughout “Postcards to Herself”. Her playful spirit and unwavering loyalty is a joy to read. This variety of introspection allows the readers to connect with the protagonist on multiple levels, making her journey relatable and poignant. Again, the cute pictures of Holly are a bonus to the readers.
Laura Stamps’ writing is characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional depth. It establishes the significance of communication and connection in our lives in this increasingly digital world. Through sharp and insightful language punctuated with underlying humour and poignant passion, Elaine has upheld the tactile nature of her postcards in contrast to digital communication.
Laura Stamps loves to experiment with style, and it is already proven in her novel “Doggie Haiku” where Cindy’s love for her Chihuahua, Hazel is explored through haiku, a Japanese poetic style. Here the narrative tone is conversational yet poetic, witty yet deeply introspective. Each postcard is a small world of its own, rich with vivid imagery and emotion. This book is a delightful and thought-provoking read for me. Laura Stamps has created a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences through her pen that resonates long after the final postcard is read.
