This collection of poetry and light prose deals with womanhood and addiction. It contains reflections on periods during which I was trying to realize myself, to find a place within the world to feel stable, while in the grips of a crippling addiction and a range of unhealthy relationships. The work captures many insights, moods and encounters from childhood through to recovery. It is often said that as addicts we define ourselves in terms of pain. I find that in recovery, I define myself more and more in terms of joy. I can relate to hope, peace and interdependence.

The collection...