"If 'philosophy' is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence," writes beloved Colorado poet and essayist David Feela, "then 'feelasophy' must mean more of the same but with a bit of a personal touch." And Feelasophy, to put an even finer point on it, is Feela's wonderful new collection of essays—seventy short, wry, and often-sublime ruminations on life's absurdities and blessings—published over the last decade in newspapers and magazines throughout the Mountain West.
From an overly cautious librarian's insistence on treating an internet password as if it were a nuclear code to the certainty that the scent of skunks means spring has newly sprung, Feela finds ridiculousness and beauty in unlikely places. And to each subject he addresses, he brings a humorist's eye and a humanitarian's very big heart. The world at large and the world that lies in the palm of your hand are equally fascinating, Feela both posits and proves. If he doesn't make you laugh out loud on every page, his essays will certainly generate smile after knowing smile.
Readers who don't find puns punny—even very good ones—should be forewarned, but if you're someone who loves writing focused on the transformation of life's little moments into compassion, wisdom, and sometimes even grace, you will rejoice in this delightful new collection. Whether he's introducing you to a bus driver with a bad attitude on the Mediterranean island of Malta or "Joanne's Gum Gallery Museum" in greater downtown Quartzite, Arizona—all four thousand pieces on display chewed by Joanne herself—then make some time, settle in, and enjoy. Like his remarkable essays, David Feela is unique—a glib, engaging, and bemused travel guide like no other who explores the mountains and deserts of the American West and locations far beyond, uncovering what truly makes a meaningful life.
"David Feela is a poet, fiction writer, and essayist and in Feelasophy he brings all those strengths to bear: precise and lyrical language, excellent storytelling, and exactitude of focus and argument. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will keep it near for travels, camping trips, long open afternoons, and moments when I need quick inspiration. As 'they' say, you're gonna love it."
—DAVID LEE, former Utah poet laureate and author of Rusty Barbed Wire
"David Feela's delightful new collections invites you into a world that is at once comical and rich with meaning. His observations range from the seemingly insignificant—the half-life of a light bulb, a discarded high school ring—to the profound and transcendent. He squeezes wisdom out of everyday moments, whether shopping for groceries or purchasing a truly cheesy souvenir T-shirt. In the traditions of Mark Twain and Kurt Vonnegut, these essays illuminate the often-overlooked landscape of American popular culture. They also hold up a mirror that allows us to recognize ourselves—and then sometimes laugh out loud."
—BILL MEISSNER, author of The Wonders of the Little World
"David Feela is a funny man with a poet's eye for detail and a keen sense of the ridiculous. His writing is infused with good cheer and humor. He likes puns and isn't afraid to use them. Feelasophy is informed by his love of words and his delight in playing with them. All the better for his readers, as he takes us down the quirky and offbeat backroads of life."
—PETER ANDERSON, author of Riding the Wheel
