Reading Lillian Allen, one is reminded that there are people in the world for whom poetry is raison d’être: “Writing poetry is the work of the soul.” The poems of this multi-disciplinary Caribbean-born, Toronto-based artist (she is also a two-time Juno award-winner) bear the mark of an eloquent, passionate first-rate social observer. Allen resists easy answers even while dealing with issues that invite them.

As the title suggests, Allen’s fourth book, Psychic Unrest, is not for those seeking respite or solace from the world. It is a deftly written unflinching exploration of the consequences of colonialism, racism, and the rage that bristles below the surface of society for black people. The evils of apartheid, domestic abuse, police brutality; Allen writes with a deep lyricism about these things. She combines a delicate use of language with incisive imagery and successfully lures the reader into her universe.

Writing a mix of poems, songs, and poetic essays, Allen creates a new poetic style within traditional metres and forms. The result is a collection in tune with the rhythm of language proffering thought-provoking one liners like “the myth of powerlessness is the TV of the masses.”

At her best, Allen writes with fury steeped in irony: “…and workers struggle for human rights for human rights.” “Stereotype Friggin” is a provocative and harsh meditation on pitting the downtrodden against each other, while “Mrs” provides a humorous but insightful look at women’s roles. “The Broken of a Black Man,” “Contract on America,” and “Don’t They Know,” stand out for their realistic portrayal of bitter truths.

Whether she is writing about racism or the common bonds that tie the Caribbean to Newfoundland, Allen’s work is profound, compelling, and realistically articulates the experiences of her people to all people.