Excerpts from The Tariff of Touch by Angela Nancy

A Peek Into The Tariff Of Touch

Angela Nancy's "The Tariff of Touch" isn't just a collection of poems; it's like a road trip through the American landscape, but with way more feelings and less questionable gas station snacks. Think of it as a well-worn map of the heart, with detours through iconic spots and quiet moments. Nancy takes us on a journey, and honestly, it feels like she's packed a picnic basket full of relatable experiences for us to share.

Route 66 Beckons: A Journey of Freedom

This poem feels like the opening scene of a classic road movie. It's all about that feeling of hitting the open road, windows down, with no real plan. It captures that specific kind of freedom you get when you're just driving, letting the miles melt away. It’s that urge to just go, to leave the everyday behind and see where the asphalt takes you. It reminds me of those times when the best adventures happen when you least expect them, just by saying 'yes' to the unknown.

All-American Diner: A Sweet, Slow Scene

Picture this: a classic diner, chrome gleaming, red vinyl booths, and the smell of coffee and something sweet. This poem is like that moment when you're just sitting there, soaking it all in. It’s about finding a little slice of comfort and maybe a bit of forbidden pleasure in the simple things. It’s that slow, sweet scene where time seems to stretch out, and all that matters is the moment you're in. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying experiences are the ones that unfold at their own pace.

New York Minute: Lost in the Concrete Jungle

New York City. It's a whirlwind, right? This poem dives into that feeling of being swept up in the city's energy. It’s that intense, fast-paced vibe where anything can happen in what feels like just a blink of an eye. Nancy captures that exhilarating chaos, the feeling of being lost and found all at once in the middle of all that hustle and bustle. It’s a testament to how quickly life can change, especially when you're in a place that never stops moving. It makes you think about how women were denied the right to vote in a nation that claimed freedom, a stark contrast to the personal freedom this poem evokes.

The Author's Own Journey

From Teacher to Wordsmith: A Bold Leap

Angela Nancy didn't always have her nose buried in a book, or rather, writing one. For a good chunk of her life, she was in the classroom, shaping young minds. It sounds like a pretty fulfilling gig, right? And it was, for a while. But there was this little whisper, a childhood dream of being a writer, that just wouldn't quit. So, after about twenty years of teaching, she decided to take the plunge. Leaving a steady job to chase a creative passion is a big deal, and honestly, a little terrifying. It’s like deciding to learn to juggle chainsaws – exciting, but you really hope you don’t mess up.

Finding Her Voice: The Thrill of Creation

Once the classroom door closed, a whole new world opened up. Suddenly, there were no lesson plans, no grading papers, just a blank page and a whole lot of ideas. It turns out, all those years of observing and interacting with people gave her a ton of stories to tell. She found that words just started to flow, painting pictures and stirring up feelings. It was like discovering a hidden talent, or maybe just finally giving that talent the space it needed to grow. This new path wasn't just about writing; it was about figuring out what she really wanted to say and how to say it best. It’s a journey many people dream of, but few actually take.

The Beauty Within: More Than Just a Pretty Face

As Angela's writing career took off, she realized something pretty cool. The attention she got wasn't just for her words, but for the person behind them. She'd always been told she was attractive, but now, it felt different. It wasn't just about looks; it was about the confidence that came from pursuing her dreams and the genuine connections she was making. She learned that true beauty isn't just what you see in the mirror; it's about what you do, how you treat others, and the passion you bring to life. It’s a reminder that we’re all more than just our outward appearance, and that’s a pretty great thing to discover. Her journey shows that chasing your passions can lead to a deeper sense of self and a more radiant kind of beauty, something that truly shines from the inside out. It’s a message that resonates, especially when you consider how much pressure there is to look a certain way these days. You can read more about how economic anxieties translate into human narratives in The Tariff of Touch.

It's easy to get caught up in what others think or what society expects. But the real magic happens when you start listening to that inner voice and pursuing what truly makes you feel alive. That's where genuine confidence and a lasting sense of beauty come from.

Echoes of America in Verse

Angela Nancy’s collection, The Tariff of Touch, doesn't just paint pictures with words; it sings them. This section, "Echoes of America in Verse," feels like a road trip soundtrack, hitting all the iconic spots with a poetic flair that’s both familiar and fresh. It’s like finding a hidden gem of a poem tucked into the back of a classic rock album sleeve.

The Great One: A Natural Wonder

This poem takes you right to the edge of something immense, like standing at the Grand Canyon. It’s about looking at a person and seeing a vast, rugged landscape, a place you want to explore. It captures that feeling of awe when you realize someone is a whole world unto themselves. It’s not just about physical beauty; it’s about the depth and history etched into someone, like the river carving its path through stone.

Chevy in a Springsteen Song: Chasing Headlights

If you’ve ever felt that pull of the open road, the rumble of an engine, and the promise of adventure, this poem is for you. It’s pure Americana, channeling that classic Springsteen vibe of a powerful car and a night that stretches out forever. It’s about the thrill of the chase, the allure of speed, and the feeling of being on a journey with someone where the destination is less important than the ride itself. It’s that feeling of being young, wild, and free, with the wind in your hair and the headlights cutting through the darkness.

Graceland Groove: Memphis Royalty

This one’s got a beat, a definite Memphis rhythm. It’s a playful nod to the King himself, Elvis, and that unmistakable Graceland swagger. The poem talks about a certain kind of energy, a captivating presence that makes you feel like you’re the only one in the room. It’s about that electrifying connection, that hip-shaking charisma that just floors you. Think less talk, more action, and a whole lot of Memphis magic.

Here’s a little breakdown of the vibe:

• The Energy: Like a lightning bolt, sudden and powerful.

• The Presence: Regal, with a touch of playful rebellion.

• The Feeling: You’re the center of their universe, and they’re yours.

This section really taps into the cultural touchstones that make America, well, America. It’s the landscapes, the music, the cars – all woven into personal connections. It’s like finding a perfect harmony between the grand and the intimate.

Love's Many Facets, Captured

Springsteen's Thunder Road: No Turning Back

This poem is like that feeling when you're in a car with someone you really dig, windows down, music up, and you just know you're on an adventure. It's about that impulsive decision to just go, to chase something that feels right, even if you don't have a solid plan. It’s that raw energy, that "let's just do this" moment that can spark something real. It’s not about the destination, but the thrill of the ride with the right person.

Stars and Stripes of You: A Constant Beat

This one feels like a Fourth of July fireworks show, but for your heart. It’s about someone who just lights you up, consistently. They’re not just a fleeting spark; they’re a steady, dazzling presence. It’s that feeling of being completely captivated, like you’ve found your own personal celebration every single day. It’s about that undeniable pull, that feeling of being totally won over by someone's unique vibe.

50 Ways to Enjoy True Love: A Guide to Lasting Affection

Finding love is one thing, but keeping it alive and kicking? That's a whole other ballgame. This section dives into the nitty-gritty of what makes love stick around. It’s not just about grand gestures; it’s about the everyday stuff, the small habits, and the mindset shifts that build a solid, happy relationship. Think of it as a practical handbook for anyone who’s serious about making their love story last.

Here are a few pointers that really hit home:

• Be Open to New Encounters: Seriously, don't get stuck in a rut. Trying new things and keeping an open mind can lead you to unexpected joys and people. It’s like shaking up your routine to let the good stuff in.

• Make Time for Yourself: This sounds counterintuitive, right? But taking care of your own needs – mind, body, and soul – actually makes you a better partner. You can’t pour from an empty cup, as they say.

• Honesty is Key: This is the bedrock. Being upfront about your feelings, your hopes, and even your fears builds the trust that relationships need to survive and thrive. No one likes guessing games.

True romance isn't something you can rush or force. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to be a little vulnerable. Focusing on your own growth is the best way to attract and keep a love that feels right.

More Book Excerpts to Explore

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GoodBuy, Things!: A Quest for Less

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Boost Your Revenue 500% with ChatGPT: AI Strategies

Okay, this one sounds a bit wild, but Warren H. Lau's "Boost Your Revenue 500% with ChatGPT" promises some serious insights into using AI for business. If you're curious about how artificial intelligence can actually make you money, this might be the guide you need. It's all about smart strategies to get ahead.

My Struggles with Constipation: Natural Healing

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It's easy to get caught up in the idea that we need more and more to be happy. But sometimes, the opposite is true. Letting go of the excess can actually free us up in ways we never expected.

The 22nd Century New Millennials: Choices Galore

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options out there? Stephanie K. L. Lam's "The 22nd Century New Millennials" dives into how the younger generation is navigating a world packed with choices. It’s a look at decision-making in a fast-paced, ever-changing landscape.

Say Goodbye to Doomsday: Moving Beyond Fear

If you find yourself worrying too much about the future, this book might be your antidote. Stephanie K. L. Lam's "Say Goodbye to Doomsday" offers ways to move past catastrophic thinking and find a more hopeful outlook. It’s about finding peace when the world feels a bit chaotic.

The Alchemy of Investment: Market Cycles

For those interested in the stock market, Warren H. Lau's "The Alchemy of Investment" breaks down the ups and downs. It covers market cycles, how people feel about the market, and trading based on news. It’s a guide to understanding the financial rollercoaster.

Navigating Life's Complexities

The 22nd Century New Millennials: Choices Galore

It feels like every day there's a new path to take, a new gadget to buy, or a new way to live. For folks born in the 2000s, this constant stream of options can be a bit much. Think about picking a college major – it used to be pretty straightforward, right? Now, you've got a million different fields, some you've probably never even heard of. It's like standing in front of a buffet with a thousand dishes; you want to try everything, but you can only eat so much. This book looks at how these younger generations are figuring it all out, trying to make sense of a world that keeps throwing more and more at them. It’s not just about what they choose, but how they feel about all those choices. Sometimes, having too many options can feel more like a burden than a blessing.

Say Goodbye to Doomsday: Moving Beyond Fear

Let's be honest, the news can be a real downer. Between climate change, economic worries, and, well, everything else, it's easy to get caught up in thinking the sky is always falling. This section tackles that feeling head-on. It’s about recognizing those doomsday thoughts for what they are – often just thoughts, not facts. The idea here is to find ways to calm that inner alarm bell. It’s not about ignoring problems, but about not letting the worst-case scenarios take over your life. Think of it like this: you wouldn't plan your whole day around the tiny chance of a meteor strike, right? This book offers some practical ways to dial down the panic and focus on what you can do, rather than what might go wrong.

The Alchemy of Investment: Market Cycles

Talking about money can be as complicated as a tax form, especially when it comes to investing. The stock market is like a roller coaster, and trying to predict its ups and downs feels like a full-time job. This part of the book breaks down how markets tend to move in cycles – sometimes things are booming, and other times they're not so great. It’s not about having a crystal ball, but about understanding the patterns. The goal is to help people feel a bit more in control, even when the market is doing its own thing. It’s about learning to ride the waves instead of getting wiped out by them. Understanding these cycles can make a big difference in how you approach your money.

It's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information and choices we face daily. Whether it's deciding on a career path, worrying about the future, or managing finances, life throws a lot at us. The trick isn't to have all the answers, but to develop a sense of calm and a clear head to tackle whatever comes next.