Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

For environmentally-conscious readers who love poetry, there is nothing quite like Robert J. Tiess's collection. Gracious Nature is yet another enthralling collection of nature poems by the author that allows you to appreciate and embrace nature through the poetic medium. The titular poem "Gracious Nature" celebrates nature's benevolent and merciful spirit that continues to reward us with plentiful bounty and beauty despite humanity's many transgressions against it. Beneath the primal sounds of a wolf's howls lie profound harmonies and emotions, beautifully conveyed through the poem "The Music of the Wolves." "Natural Geometrics" highlights the symmetrical disposition of all things related to nature. In "Elsewhere in the Universe," the narrator marvels at the grand scope of the cosmos and the seemingly eternal nature of cosmic entities.

Robert J. Tiess has a way of incorporating poignant earthly and environmental themes into his poetry, and this collection is no different. Gracious Nature is an illuminating collection that is a tribute to nature and brings to light its maternal relationship with humanity and all other living beings. The author uses both rhyming and free-verse poetry to profess his love and care for the environment and wildlife. Some of these poems focus on the attributes of specific wild animals and showcase their unique roles in the grand tapestry of life. Toward the end, Tiess presents an insightful essay on nature poems that explains why they are important and shows how they can be as heartfelt, intimate, and moving as confessional poetry. After reading three of his books, I can honestly say I've become a fan of Robert J. Tiess's poetic storytelling and will heartily recommend this collection to all poetry readers.