October 2, 2026

Review of Eric Barr’s chapbook, Striking Back.

Fearless, funny, feisty. Whether dealing with his post-stroke new normal, or the death of a friend, or comparing himself to roadkill, Eric Barr faces it head-on.

When all is said and done comes much too soon, he confronts the challenges and the losses. No sugarcoating. But he also reveals what he’s gained in terms of compassion, empathy, and self-awareness. [W]e don’t notice being alive until it’s almost too late.

A bird slams into the picture window, and Barr asks, How many times have I been stopped cold. He enjoys the reassurance of snuggling with his dog. Then, We both fall asleep and back into our dreams of running.

Striking Back, by Eric Barr (Arroyo Seco Press, 2025). Available through Amazon. Striking Back: Barr, Eric: 9798991872454: Amazon.com: Books