Dear Marshall, Language Is Our Only Wilderness

There is a fine line between fiction and fact and Heather Sweeney balances on this filament, stating what most of us are thinking but would never dare to reveal. In Sweeney's distinctive text, her language pulsates with the energy of "a circumference of birds." There's a tonal irreverence that masks a deep and abiding vulnerability and a deep and abiding beauty. In this epistolary investigation of self, we find our own thoughts echoed. I am struck by her honesty. It's so raw and exposed and brave. If you're feeling afraid, or feeling like no one understands, read this. It will do its part in saving you. As Sweeney tells us, "language is our only wilderness" and she shows us that this is where we might just find ourselves and all our luminous truths.

Sara Veglahn