Dalton's poetry is intense, and exudes revolution in every verse. Knowing a history of the poet's life and struggle, you get a greater feel and appreciation for all his work. His pain, love, and hate all mixed together delivers the most powerful poetry I've ever read. I enjoyed this book immensely, and recommend it to all of those that are a rebel at heart.

In Dalton's words you can hear his pain, loss and anger; but it's his love and romantic vision that you take away. I tresure this book and it stands as my most read book.

"Poems," by Roque Dalton, is an excellent book by an author from El Salvador. The poems have been translated into English by Richard Schaaf. This volume includes a brief but informative biography of Dalton (1935-75), a Communist and a guerrilla who endured imprisonment and exile, and was eventually assassinated. In his relatively short and turbulent life, Dalton brought forth an impressive poetic legacy.

In "Poems," Dalton (as interpreted by Schaaf) writes with clarity and directness. His voice demonstrates wit, a piercing satiric edge, and flashes of dark, bitter humor. And there are also moments of transcendent hope. Dalton writes about imprisonment, revolution, the poor, and oppressive violence. He satirizes religion and abusive governments. He often extols Communist values. A number of poems are self-reflective examinations of poetry itself.

Some of the most notable selections in "Poems" are "Looking for Trouble," a subversively funny narrative poem about joining a Marxist-Leninist cell; "Poeticus Eficacciae," a meditation on the relationship between politics and poetry; and "The Bible Business," which critiques the hypocrisy of North American churches.

In "Like You," Dalton writes, "I believe the world is beautiful, / that poetry is, like bread, for everyone." Roque Dalton's poetic vision oscillates between hope and horror, but his voice rarely falters. I strongly recommend this book to those interested in Latin American history, politics and poetry.