Gene Zimmerman

“Zimmerman’s heartfelt and heartbreaking collection of poetry—written during his wife’s illness and after her passing— explores grief, loss, and healing. . . .The emotional intensity of the collection is palpable; the feelings of loss, loneliness, and despair are almost overwhelming at times. . . . A poetry collection—clearly cathartic for the writer—that could very well be therapeutic for readers.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“The emotions and experiences of a bereaved spouse are at the center of the concise, elegant poetry collection . . . [which] explores the nuances of grief in spare, accessible language. The book achieves its aim, becoming a balm for fellow travelers who have suffered their own pains because of the illnesses and deaths of loved ones.”

—Foreword Clarion Review

“Gene Zimmerman’s poetry collection, Searching for Clarity, details his five-year journey caring for his wife, who eventually died. . . . The fleeting nature of time, his most precious commodity as time with his wife runs out, is skillfully portrayed. . . . Those experiencing the loss of a loved one[,] especially caregivers, will appreciate Zimmerman’s look at the particular emotions it brings: despair, heartbreak, helplessness, yet also communion and intimacy.”

—BlueInk Review

Gene Zimmerman had a 30-year business career in various sales and sales management positions within the consumer electronics, home video, and financial industries before his wife was diagnosed with a tumor in her spinal cord. For nearly five years, she fought courageously as Gene became her caregiver and then, when her illness demanded full time professional care, he became her constant companion, supporter, and advocate.

It was during this time of love and struggle that Gene was strongly moved to write poetry. Since her death, Gene has continued to study, take classes, and write poetry. He lives in Portland, Oregon, and is the proud father of two grown children, Chloe and Eric.