Mental Mileage
In this raw and unflinching collection of 80 poems, I, Neil Patrick Abella will take you on an intimate journey through the landscapes of love, mental health struggles, societal observation, and personal transformation. Written between 2021 and 2023, "Mental Mileage" serves as both a time capsule of a turbulent era and a deeply personal chronicle of one soul's quest for understanding and healing.
The anthology is thoughtfully divided into four chapters:
Love - Explores the complexities of romance, from the tender beginnings of attraction to the bittersweet ache of endings. These poems capture both the euphoria of connection and the depths of heartbreak, written in styles ranging from contemporary free verse to Early Modern English sonnets.
Narratives - Presents a kaleidoscope of life's moments through storytelling, ranging from humorous Australian vernacular tales to profound philosophical musings. Each piece offers a unique window into human experience, combining wit with wisdom.
Mental Health - Chronicles my courageous battle with mental illness through dated entries and reflective pieces. This section provides an unflinching look at hospitalization, recovery, and the daily challenges of maintaining mental wellness, while offering hope and solidarity to others on similar journeys.
Politics - Examines contemporary social issues through a poetic lens, addressing everything from technological advancement to global pandemics. These pieces challenge readers to think critically about power structures, misinformation, and humanity's future in an increasingly complex world.
Written with disarming honesty and emotional depth, "Mental Mileage" speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost, loved deeply, questioned society's direction, or struggled with their mental health. This collection reminds us that in sharing our vulnerabilities and experiences, we find connection and meaning in our shared human journey.
Perfect for readers who appreciate:
- Raw, confessional poetry
- Mental health advocacy and awareness
- Social commentary through verse
- Australian perspective and culture
- Contemporary poetry that bridges traditional and modern styles
Step into this powerful collection where personal struggle meets universal truth, and where every verse marks another mile on the journey toward understanding and healing.
