AuthorsDen: Reviews at a Glance

Recent Reviews for J. Joy Matthews Alford - Sistah Joy

From Pain To Empowerment - The Fabric of My Being (Book) - 10/13/2009 9:56:37 PM
A review of From Pain to Empowerment-The Fabric of My Being-Selected Poems by J. Joy “Sistah Joy” Matthews Alford > > Poetry can be full of odd phrases,conundrums, enigmatic expressions and obscure meaning. J. Joy “Sistah Joy” Matthews Alford is a poet with a very distinctive poetic voice who never resorts to these literary devices. She creates poetry that may appear rather transparent initially, but is very thought provoking and wise once the reader has peered into its depths. Her latest collection of poems “From Pain to Empowerment-The Fabric of My Being”, a chapbook from J&D Publishing, is a testament to her intelligence and creative talents. Alford artfully provides the reader with a well-scripted view of her journey through life thus far. She does not hide or disguise emotions. The words and lines in this chapbook are sensitive, spiritual and personal. Alford is not afraid to express her pain as reflected in “I Stand Tall” or her triumphs, as reflected in one of her signature pieces “Get Outta My Way.” She is a master of narrative verse as demonstrated in “I Pray For You” and “Coming Into Focus.” > An in-depth analysis of her chapbook reveals several things about this talented poet. Creating poetry is as much a cathartic process for her as it is a method of releasing pain, despair and disappointment. Additionally, as it relates to her life, it appears she has asked herself the hard questions and not dodged the equally hard answers; see “Seeking The Light” and “Faded Passion.” One of Alford’s strengths is her ability to chronicle the complexities and incongruence of her life “Desire II” and “My Sister’s Light.” She allows us to overhear clearly what she has discovered no matter how transparent and painful. And thankfully, she does not fall20into the boring and simplistic trap of lyrical verse to explain her discoveries. > In “Decisions” and “The Stillness Inside” her language and phrasing are precise and offer a poets view into the deepest emotions of the human heart. Alford has penned a powerful and emotional testimony to the power of the saving graces of her Creator, which are enunciated in “Peace Be still,” and “I Pray For You.” None of the poems in “From Pain to Empowerment-The Fabric of My Being” fall flat, or miss the mark. Her spirituality, insightfulness, and attention to detail in selecting just the right words to capture a moment are qualities to be admired. > Her poems convey the myriad nuances of discovery, joy, disappointment, and revelation. Alford takes emotional risk many talented writers only envy and her works are timeless, as they exist un-tethered to a specific moment in her life. Her creativity and versatility are very evident as in “Sweet Lit tle One” and “Remembrances.” And all of her works are technically proficient. > It has been said that authentic and passionate Poetry will ensure a Poet’s immortality. Alford has created a set of poems that are ardent and honest in their self-revelation and authenticity. These works will survive the test of time. > > Sistah Joy Alford can be found hosting poetry and open mic every third Thursday of the month at Annie’s Art Gallery in Temple Hills Maryland. The chapbook “From Pain to Empowerment-The Fabric of My Being” can be purchased from J&D Publications, P.O. Box 44353. Washington, D.C., The Parrish Gallery-Georgetown 1054 31st St. NW Washington, D.C. 20007 and Annie’s Art Gallery 5814 Allentown Way Camp Springs Maryland 20748. >

Lord I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can (Book) - 3/30/2008 5:22:57 PM
We have spent the past several weeks reading the poetic offerings of J. Joy Matthew Alford, “Lord, I’m Dancin’ As Fast As I Can” Thelemaque Publishing, 2nd. Edition 2003, an insightful, spiritually laden book of poetry, filled with insight, beauty and passion. More widely known as “Sistah Joy,” Ms. Alford’s initial offering is divided into six (6) chapters which address three distinct and wholly separate subject matters, social consciousness, relationships and spirituality. Of particular interest is her treatment of African American men. She confronts the plight of her Brothers in a very clear and supportive manner. The poem “No Complicity” demonstrates a surprising understanding of the trials and tribulations faced by Black men seldom written about by Black women authors. She honors Black men by treating them with respect and dignity, while clearly acknowledging their struggle. Her acknowledgement is most refreshing. The book opens with poems of social and political consciousness. Ms. Alford poetically pays tribute to Dr. King, Malcolm X, John Brown and Nelson Mandela in a very thoughtfully provoking and powerful turn of words and phrases. Sistah Joy’s works regarding social consciousness address the personal struggles of African-Americans and is artful and very descriptive; e.g. “Change Sisters, “Conditioned to React” and “Death Row Scenario.” All possess an elegant aggression all their own that allows the reader to absorb the message in a very straight forward manner. In keeping with Sistah Joy’s unwavering need for honesty, she adds several works that may be reflective of her own personal struggles; e.g. “Victory Song” “Why Not” as well as “You, Like Me.” The second segment of the book deals with what may be viewed as her own personal struggle with love gained, “Lower Left Side”; love lost, “Please”, “Mourning,” “All I Ever Wanted” and love never forsaken, “Consumed”, “The Scent”, “My Fine Chocolate Brother.” All powerful pieces that clearly demonstrate that through the pain and tears she still very much believes in romance, love and the quality of Black men. The final and probably most powerful segment of the book deals with spirituality. This is the common thread throughout the book. While there are poems dedicated to family, loved ones, friends and first time experiences; e.g.“750 Horses,” the common link throughout is her firm and total trust in her Creator. But don’t be mislead, by the serious nature of her works. Sistah Joy possesses a very refreshing and engaging wit; e.g. “I Be Dancin’, “Pork Chops and Twinkies” and “Beauty Parlor Mess” all show she enjoys expressing her healthy sense of humor. The power of Sistah Joy’s writings may be their biggest fault. She has an uncompromising need to be brutally honest, and equally not willing to mask her emotions or feeling. But this may as well be her biggest strength, as she seems comfortable laying herself bare to her readers, not willing to compromise her words. Strength derived from her walk of faith and unconditional belief and love in her Creator. She is a strong and courageous Black woman. We look forward to reading her future works with a hope they are equally as honest and insightful. Lawrence W. Shavers 3/30/2008

Lord I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can (Book) - 9/8/2007 5:36:23 AM
I sincerely believe every person who is able should read “Lord I’m Dancin’As Fast As I Can” because of its unrivaled ability to grip the soul and massage intimate places. I found myself empathizing and dancin’ with her as she masterfully choreographed each syllable. I was saddened in places and laughed out loud in others. Joy’s poetry moves and lifts and soars and I’m enlightened by her gift. The world is enriched by your presence/presents and I thank God for creating you. -Ty Gray-EL 9/8/07

Lord I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can (Book) - 7/28/2007 1:12:28 PM
Lord I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can is an excellent book written by Sistah Joy. It is filled with thought provoking poetry and very vivid. The title itself is very profound, dynamic and universal. I think that Sistah Joy did a remarkable job with the overall layout and design. Thank you Sistah Joy for sharing such an unique book with us! Five Stars Rating Reviewed by Afrika Midnight Asha Abney www.authorsden.com/afrikamaabney

The Big Read (Article) - 10/19/2009 1:38:03 AM
well said

Poetry Extravaganza 2008, 12 Annual Tribute to Dr. King (Article) - 3/29/2008 5:52:35 PM
I am inspired by all you have accomplished and all that you will accomplish with the guidance and love from our Lord Jesus Christ. Many Blessing! Success Always! John Michael Domino

I Stand Tall (Poetry) - 10/21/2009 12:12:01 AM
This is a very inspirational and outstanding poem.Excellent poem of motivation and overcoming obstacles.I enjoy reading it,take care

I Stand Tall (Poetry) - 10/17/2009 7:07:23 PM
J. Joy, This is outstanding work! Most all of us have struggles in life that strive to get us down, to keep us from taking that climb, that keeps us from 'standing tall.' This should be read by everyone, J. This is a keeper1 Love an Blessings, ~Linda

In The Quiet Time (Poetry) - 7/1/2009 10:27:58 AM
Wonderful inspiration! Come visit me sometime. Jesus is in command. Amen! John Michael

In The Quiet Time (Poetry) - 6/4/2009 6:11:57 PM
This is such a beautiful poem you have written.I love it.Its always good to read your poems :-),take care EDWIN

In Search Of (Poetry) - 5/2/2009 1:40:44 PM
Excellent poem,great work,take care Edwin

Strong Hands of Mother Africa (Poetry) - 4/30/2009 10:16:09 AM
J.Joy, This poem is incredibly powerful,and it is filled with your passion for Mother Africa. You have done an excellent job of portraying what I, and so many others,feel. May you continue to awaken and empower those of us who read and listen. Barbara Henry

Train Ride To Hope (Poetry) - 3/28/2009 8:27:49 PM
Divinely written!

Train Ride To Hope (Poetry) - 2/15/2009 10:05:38 PM
E x c e l l e n t !!!

Train Ride To Hope (Poetry) - 2/4/2009 9:15:40 AM
This is a fine piece of writing. I would like to congratulate you "Train Ride to Hope" is a very good poem. Great elucidation!!! Your vivid description of the scene, the characters, the staging, captures the celebratory atmosphere of the day. Your literary devices and word pictures are very powerful and graphic. They precisely convey the feeling of solidarity and inclusion that seem to be paramount in the piece. One can feel the electricity, the passion and the excitement that did not seem to wane when it became obvious that a visual of the ceremony would not be available. Once again, your skillful depiction of the people and events is elegant and sophisticated; which is a very consistent and appealing characteristic of your writings. This is a very good piece of writing!!! Once again, great job.

Train Ride To Hope (Poetry) - 2/2/2009 3:10:59 AM
You are veyr lucky and bless to be at the inauguration.I saw it on television and seeing all those people were like seeing different flavors of ice cream in this big bowl of the human American spirit along the spoons of humanity and unity at its finest.It was a proud day for everyone.I enjoy reading this poem and I am glad that you experience history firsthand.take good care of yourself Edwin

Train Ride To Hope (Poetry) - 2/1/2009 7:37:24 AM
I would love to hear from people who read this poem and would care to comment, perhaps reflecting on their personal 2009 Inauguration experience.

The Discovery of Connectedness (Poetry) - 8/15/2008 11:36:47 AM
Well done.

Remembrances (Poetry) - 7/31/2008 8:21:06 AM
Yes, I agree! My first wife died of cancer and it took over 20yrs. to write about our experiences during the last days of her life. I have the short story on my Author's Den Website. Please visit when you have time. Blessings, John Michael

A Poet’s Crystalline Moment (Poetry) - 7/11/2008 9:28:55 PM
With deepest sincerity this creative piece blossomed.... Be always safe, Karen

A Poet’s Crystalline Moment (Poetry) - 7/11/2008 9:40:30 AM
Hi Joy,how are you?This is a very heart-touching poem.Poetry is a powerful tool to release any anger,pain or any other feeling we have inside of our bodies.Like I told a friend of mine,poetry is like doing yoga.Instead of stretching our bodies,we stretch our minds and hearts which is release from the pens in our hands to the page of a book or on a piece of paper.God Bless Poetry and God bless you too.take care of yourself Edwin

A Poet’s Crystalline Moment (Poetry) - 7/11/2008 7:03:09 AM
Sister, This is beautifully penned Grace in verse - well done! (((HUGS))) and love, Karla. Even more meaningful, since my big, strong Daddy died a little over a month ago - thank you.

A Poet’s Crystalline Moment (Poetry) - 7/11/2008 6:55:32 AM
Lovely, heartfelt writing! Very nice rhythm and flow.

As They Pierced His Palm (Poetry) - 7/10/2008 7:55:06 AM
Fantastic! I can visually see and feel His pain. It is nothing like the real experience but your poem took me to a more spirtual level. You gave me MORE of an appreciation for our LORD. I appreciate YOU for that! GOD BLESS YOU Debra! John Michael

As They Pierced His Palm (Poetry) - 7/3/2008 8:29:44 AM
A blessed write and poem this is. Enjoy the summer and spread the world the creativy and joy of your gift. Beautiful piece of work.

Ants to Ancestors (Poetry) - 7/1/2008 4:05:22 AM
Very deep and insightful, bringing to mind the circle which is Alpha and Omega and the connectivity that forever binds us to those who have walked this plane before us and those who will follow. And reminding us that we must both blaze new paths while helping others find existing roads we have been led to by our foreparents.

Remembrances (Poetry) - 6/1/2008 3:31:07 AM
A beautiful write my friend, very inspiring as well as wise...well done poetess, enjoyed this much! Blessings from Ky. Joyce B.

As They Pierced His Palm (Poetry) - 5/28/2008 10:35:37 AM
I am SO glad I read this--I am keeping a copy. It is an awesome, inspired poem, insight beyond human reasoning. Bless you, Sistah Joy, for sharing His poem with us! A sister's hug, Connie

Ants to Ancestors (Poetry) - 5/27/2008 5:40:58 AM
Our footsteps feed the wisdom of the petals of our souls, we hand them down with hope our predecessors' will continue the dance... Beautiful wise words of wisdom...

Freedom's Echo (Poetry) - 4/18/2008 7:06:55 AM
Whewww! This will give you the Holy Ghost. I enjoyed the immense feeling of elevation in this as well as your poem Queen. Keep going to the mountain top sista and spreading the wonderful Word!

As They Pierced His Palm (Poetry) - 4/6/2008 6:16:40 PM
And what a price only Jesus could pay for a debt we had no ability to amend. For only if a seed is planted can it multiply into the earthen vessels meant to contain it. Thank you Sista Joy. Have a blessed spring.