Ibbetson Street Press Issue 4, November, 1999:

"BETWEEN GENESIS and 666 by Robert Roden and ARMAGEDDON'S GARDEN by Jerry Gordon (Aphasia Press) is a book that is actually two books interspersed with and playing off each other. Most often a poem by Roden is found on the left-hand page, one by Gordon on the right. The titles of all the poems begin with the letter A.

"The mixing of two poet's work is an interesting idea, one that seems dependent on a similarity of vision and tone which both poets share. Both employ sensual imagery and occasional humor. The last six lines of Roden's poem "ad astra per aspera" read:

The way she swings
Her hips is criminal.

I tell her this.
And she tells me the way
My teeth will lines the streets
Is not going to be worthy
Of art.

Roden's imagery may tend a bit more toward the body and frank sexuality; Gordon's more toward imaginative or fantasized scenes.

"The last poem of the book is Gordon's title poem ARMAGEDDON'S GARDEN and in this poem Gordon reaches the deeper level of insight that are the special province of his poetry. His language is plain, as though talking to a friend over a late night beer;

But, for as long as we can embrace
    everything as it is
as it is--
goods, bads, and all other lies included--
we are living in Paradise
and sitting amidst everything as blessing.

The book is complemented by some wonderful art work by Matt Puentes. His work imparts a glimpse of the underpinnings of all live, whether plant or animal."

                                    --RICHARD WILHELM
 

The Brown Bottle Issue 3:1, December, 1999:

"This is an interesting collaborative chapbook in the sense that the writing styles of Gordon and Roden are very similar, and the book itself is somewhat thematic. The poems trace the joys and pains of love and lust. Although the titles may suggest a pack of Biblical references and dated allusions, the poems are straightforward and thought provoking. There is some really nice sensual and phallic artwork by Matt Puentes.

"This is a solid overall production. The poems hit and miss at times, but for the most part they're carefully structured and well written. Both men write strong, image centered pieces that demonstrate a keen awareness of craft. For a good read, this is well worth your four beans."

                                    --Nate Graziano
 

Lucid Moon Issue 37, Fall, 1999:

"A beautiful collection of finely wrought heartfelt poetry that looks towards armageddon, the day we will be no more. The poems are tinged with a foreboding sense of beauty, disease and desire. With haunting artwork by Matt Puentes that perfectly compliments the poetry. All the titles begin with the letter "A", and the two authors face each other on each page. [ . . . ] A fine collection of tasteful yet bittersweet poetry worth checking out."

                                    --Ralph Haselmann Jr.
 

Fearless Issue 37, 1999:

"i really enjoyed these earthy, heart-felt poems that flow effortlessly w/ wise rhythm, articulate imagery and lingering personality.

"a true aid in the search for humanity amid the deitrus [sic] of our technological age. in short--i HIGHLY recommend this double-chap. a memorable work."

                                    --Kevin M. Hibshman

Maelstrom Vol. II, No. 6

"This co-operative book by Roden and Gordon is filled with sensuous poems all beginning with the letter A. The two poets alternate in a sort of poetic sparring match to see which can out-do the poem before it. These are poems from the street that let raw truth tell all."