Guided by the Compass…to the Compelling Heart of Experience

Compass is a vibrant collection of powerful and deeply personal poems, using elements in the natural world that parallel and illuminate the human condition. The metaphor of the compass as guide draws the reader into Erik Hansen’s world, rich with imagery and discovery. Whether we are intrigued by the mystery of winter or of a place such as Elsinore; whether we are led by the idea of memory or the promise of love; whether we learn from a symbol such as an airport, a doe, her fawn, a tattoo, or a hummingbird, Hansen’s poetry guides us to accept the multiple gifts each life is privileged to receive. Hansen uses onomatopoeia, allusion, alliteration, metaphor, and myriad figures to create lyrical prosody, engaging the reader, and providing a light post from which to continue a northward journey. In an accessible style that allows any reader to easily identify with his words, the author paints his pictures with vivid imagery, profound metaphor, and tangible emotion, with details that substantiate the credibility of his writing. Spanning decades, this collection contains several hand-picked early works by the author, along with many more current pieces, showcasing the range and growth he has achieved over the years. Compass will take you on a sensual and emotional journey with a spiritual destination.