Larry Jaffe's new book, One Child Sold (Salmon Poetry, 2010), is about human rights and trafficking, and as such addresses the sickness and depravity of human trafficking and the necessity of cleansing such wounds for societal health. This book would seem to be filled with horror and sadness in dealing with such a depressing subject. However, the poems in this book can't seem to help themselves from believing in love and hope. Scars are touched gently and given the honor they deserve but at the same time the human spirit is shown with all its courage along with flags and drums and fifes of forgiveness for a hopeful future.

Many years ago I wrote a poem called "Unprotected Poetry." Little did I know at the time that this not-so-simple, not so little poem would create such controversy. For over ten years "Unprotected Poetry" has assaulted the senses of readers and listeners all looking to see or hear between the lines. That this most sensual poem could be about censorship was not always understood but the concept was readily appreciated.