The Happiness Triangle | The Equilibrist Series Vol.I
The Happiness Triangle
Synopsis
In Erasmus Cromwell-Smith II's magical, modern-day literary tale, an ailing professor journeys into his past to reveal a world ensconced in stories and poetry, with the hope of imparting inspirational, lifelong lessons.
From his crumpled aesthetic of a tweed jacket or cardigan to his thick British accent, Professor Erasmus Cromwell-Smith is the embodiment of the prestigious New England scholastic institute where he teaches. But at 64, with a sudden diagnosis of incurable brain cancer, he decides to focus his intentions on living each day to the fullest and to share a lifetime of wisdom that he's treasured throughout the years.
Through an unfolding of conversation, free-verse poetry, and letters, the mentors’ tutelage is revealed. Over 30 thought-provoking poems and reflections are woven throughout, addressing such concepts as letting go of the past, finding inspiration, dealing with loss, and ultimately living a happy, blissful life.
Jun 1, 2018
Erasmus Press
“…This magnificent literary creation is a work of art. It is like someone has written the language of my soul. The poems were the stepping-stones and the story of the professor is what linked them together. The book stories were the portals, then the poems transported me to places deep, deep inside. This little great book touched me emotionally everywhere. For me it was like an inspirational box of chocolates. The love story is one we can all relate to as love is a two-sided coin and its balance rests on the edge. This book will connect with both serious, casual readers and everyone in general, even the youngest. I predict the equilibrist will become an American literary classic and it is my appreciation as a teacher, that it will become mandatory reading at the high-school level…”
“…This book is a jewel and a masterpiece. The story is a treasure trove of art and poetry, presented through poetic installments weaved with a thrilling story. It describes the nurturing of personal and interpersonal relationships. It touches the very soul of our emotions while causes introspection of our own existence. From the beginning, I felt this intense emotional connection with the story and was quickly lost for hours at a time reflecting on each sentence profoundness and wisdom. Then, every time I went back to it, I found myself reading the prior ten pages over and over again…”
In Erasmus Cromwell-Smith II’s magical, modern-day literary tale, an ailing professor journeys into his past to reveal a world ensconced in stories and poetry, with hope of imparting inspirational, lifelong lessons.
From his crumpled aesthetic of a tweed jacket or cardigan to his thick British accent, Professor Erasmus Cromwell-Smith is the embodiment of the prestigious New England scholastic institute where he teaches. But at 64, with a sudden diagnosis of incurable brain cancer, he decides to focus his intentions on living each day to the fullest, and to share a lifetime of wisdom that he’s treasured throughout the years. In daily classes with an ever-increasing audience, the professor mesmerizes students with tales of a childhood surrounded by rare books and enhanced by his friendships with three colorful, eclectic antiquarian mentors.
Through an unfolding of conversation, free-verse poetry, and letters, the mentors’ tutelage is revealed. For example, the title poem serves as a message about balance and freedom, while “The Magic in Life” poses questions about where enchantment exists, ” … a piece of art?/ …a magnificent meal?/ …within the silence and peace of contemplation and meditation?” Over 30 thought-provoking poems and reflections are woven throughout, addressing such concepts as letting go of the past, finding inspiration, dealing with loss, and ultimately living a happy, blissful life.
The writing style is thoroughly fluid and engaging, with a nice narrative change up, as chapters often switch from third person as the eccentric professor ponders his way to class, to the first-person storytelling of his lectures that easily draws in students (and readers).
This is also a story about love. With only a few hints regarding a curious young blonde-haired woman attending his class, the professor’s legacy is ultimately brought to a surprising, honored conclusion.
The story’s premise recalls Randy Pausch’s popular memoir, The Last Lecture, yet this existential “final session” harbors a quiet magical quality all its own. In choosing to explore universal concerns within a captivating fictional realm, Cromwell-Smith II strikes an ideal balance for his storytelling.