by Alison

Inspirational Haiku for a Recessed Economy is a mouthful to say but it is one bitter book. But who can blame author Eric D. Knapp? Simply put, the economy stinks and many, many people are suffering.

And so I think this bitter book with the geometric samurai on it’s cover is just what the doctor ordered. Misery loves company but these haiku aren’t just bitter, they are outrageously sardonic in their sad truthfulness and are laugh out loud hilarious.

This haiku, for example, made me chuckle while contemplating the perks and penalties of unemployment:

My wife comes home soon.

Now I must shower and dress.

“See how hard I try?”

While this haiku caused me to reflect on the positives in limited cash flow:

Shut off the cable,

and the cell phone and the heat.

Warmth comes from within.

Ever have a great idea for an invention while unemployed? Eric D. Knapp has had these visions, too:

Is there such a thing

as a beer hose? Invent it

and you will be rich!

And finally the steadfast resolve in finding that new job working for “the man”:

To find a new lord,

I will travel far by foot

and live by hard steel.

What can I say? This is funny stuff and so very real. Oh, and it’s just five bucks so if you happen to be employed and enjoying the regularity of Starbucks coffee, go out and give Eric. D. Knapp a hand and buy this book. And if you are not living the highlife? Put this on your wish list and ask your friend to buy it for you.

After all, everyone needs a little laughter, especially during hard times.