About the Book

​Press Release by BRIGHTKEY PR
A BOLD POETRY COLLECTION CONFRONTS MODERN LIFE WITH INSIGHT, RHYTHM, AND REFLECTION
Gary Frederick Russo delivers thought provoking and visually enriched poetry exploring society, freedom, and human emotion in Notes from Oblivion.
New York, NY, March 22, 2026 — In Notes from Oblivion, poet Gary Frederick Russo presents a striking collection of contemporary poetry that challenges readers to reflect on the complexities of modern life. Written for an adult audience, the work explores themes such as populism, media saturation, freedom, censorship, isolation, and the enduring tensions of love, offering a layered and unflinching look at the world through a lyrical lens. Russo’s poetry is grounded in a classic lyric style, with a strong emphasis on rhythm and structure. This traditional approach is paired with modern subject matter, creating a compelling contrast that enhances both the accessibility and depth of the work. Each poem captures a distinct moment or perspective, encouraging readers to pause, reflect, and reconsider familiar ideas from unexpected angles. What sets Notes from Oblivion apart is its ability to balance seriousness with subtle humor and insight. While the themes are often weighty, Russo introduces moments of wit and irony that add dimension to the reading experience. His work does not simply critique modern society, it invites readers to engage with it thoughtfully, acknowledging both its challenges and contradictions. Adding to the collection’s impact, each poem is accompanied by a full color image, creating a visual and emotional complement to the written word. This combination of poetry and imagery enhances the reader’s connection to the material, offering a more immersive and multi layered experience. The visual elements serve to reinforce the tone and meaning of the poems, making each piece resonate more deeply. The inspiration behind the collection reflects Russo’s desire to capture the pulse of contemporary life while maintaining a strong connection to poetic tradition. His work speaks to readers who appreciate both artistic expression and critical reflection, offering a voice that is at once observant, questioning, and deeply human. This collection will appeal to readers of modern poetry who are drawn to themes of society, identity, and emotional complexity. It is particularly suited for those who value poetry that challenges perspective while remaining grounded in strong lyrical form. Gary Frederick Russo is a poet whose work blends classical influence with contemporary relevance. Through Notes from Oblivion, he offers a powerful and engaging collection that invites readers to explore the world through rhythm, imagery, and thoughtful reflection.
The book is now available at all online booksellers. For review copies, interview requests, or additional information, please contact: [email protected]

    

Thank you for visiting! I am thrilled with this recent overview of my book by BRIGHTKEY PR. Here is the  table of contents:

     The Poems

1. Loitering in Limbo
2. At the Parasite's
3. Observation
4. Contemplating Flotsam
5. Another Token for My Chain
6. The Beckoning Dumpster
7. We are the Blockheads
8. The Debutante
9.  Systems
10. I, Monk
11. The Beat of Life Goes On
12. Mao Would Be Proud
13. Giraffes
14. Beyond the Softest Touch
15. Not We, But Me
16. Fragments
17. A Single Copy
18. Probably, Not Necessarily
19. I Still Put Another Log atop The Fire
20. On Guard!
21. Timecard
22. May They Forever Frolic
23. The Birds of Courtenay
24. My Girlfriend?
25. You Need a Heart to See
26. Literary Goons

     Reading Night at the Library
 
     Culinary Supplement 
      An Assortment of Canapés
  27. Herbed Cream Cheese on Ritz Cracker
  28. Buzhenina with Cornichons and Marinated Peppers
  29. Shaved Serrano Ham with Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
  30. Beef Carpaccio with Asiago Petals
  31. Duck and Mango Tartlets 
 
​        The Images

About the Author

     I am a retired chef living on Vancouver Island and Notes from Oblivion is my first published work. Toronto is my hometown, where I lived until 1990. I attended the University of Toronto for three years in the program Russian and Eastern European Studies, and obtained a minor degree in Russian Language. I then set out on a 23-year adventure working as a chef in Russia and Ukraine. I love music and have recorded many of these poems as songs. Currently, they are rough home studio demos, but it would be great one day to produce an excellent studio album, giving the "notes" in the title an added dimension. 

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