AustLit

''In this collection, Carolyn Cordon presents social observations and thoughtful utterances in unassuming but crafted language. These pages represent a crucible of poetry: rhyming, blank and free verse, stanza formats, tanka and other paragraphed sections delving into a variety of themes. There are philosophical statements mixed amongst distinctive declarations, and sage advice is put against the inquisitive nature of daily life. Carolyn presents occasional feminism with honest content, 'what ifs' with interesting imagery, and contemporary ponderings presented in an unassuming positivity. There are also smatterings of irreverence to break up streaks of gravity. Carolyn includes an occasional nod of cultural or historical references set against personal commentary, and also balances rhetorical questions against interesting observations. These are musings of a suburban lass gone country with offerings for most people in the population to consider her unique observations from a woman of letters.' - Alex Robertson'  (Publication summary)

'‘I have known Carolyn Cordon for many years and I’m proud to call her my friend. I have read her stories and watched as her poetry developed. Her poetry journey began in pain and self-examination, yet has continued to grow into joyous maturity. Tense & Still is the culmination of that journey. In Tense & Still Carolyn turns her perceptive gaze outward. We not only get to see all sorts of animals in their everyday lives, but we have the rare opportunity of seeing through their eyes. She captures the cold-blooded instincts of the hunting dog, reluctantly tame, mercilessly stalking its hapless prey. We feel the careless sorrow as a passer-by as they observe the common remnants of roadkill and ruminate on the life that once was. In Tense & Still, you will find all sorts: dogs, cats, birds and bugs – warm-blooded and the so very cold. All the Tense and Still creatures you could want and some you’ll be glad to never meet. Tense and Still is Carolyn’s best book yet.’ - Joanne Baker' (Publication summary)