Essentia

"Those who read and reflect on Essentia: The Winding Path of the Soul, Selected Poems, will realize the ways inner turmoil leads to awakening. This is a precious collection that gives a precious gift."
~ Feathered Quill ~

This collection features selected poems by Joe Giampaolo written in free verse and traditional Japanese forms (haiku, tanka, chöka). Joe weaves topics such as love and metaphysics into his poetry, which is at times lyrical and passionate, and at times ethereal, delicate, and deeply steeped in Zen aesthetics.

These poems explore suffering and internal turmoil on the path to spiritual awakening, highlighting the discovery of a deeper existence beyond our conditioning.

These poems were all previously published in Joe's first four award-winning collections, Deep Craving, From the Book of Dreams, Metanoia and An Unlikely Sunset.

Editorial Reviews of Joe's Poetry (Excerpts)

"His beautiful verses cover a myriad of subjects, touching on them all with tenderness and wit. Truly beautiful, and a must-read!" ~ Manhattan Book Review ~

"Reading Giampaolo's offerings is like reading haiku created by the great Matsuo Bashō. ~ The US Review of Books ~

"It's a fantastic poetry collection by a lyrical wordsmith." ~ Readers' Favorite ~

"An Unlikely Sunset stands as a remarkable achievement in contemporary poetry." ~ BookShelfie ~

"Very emotive poetry that raises existential questions that truly matter. Very enjoyable and accessible poetry." ~ John P. Portelli (University professor and poet) ~

"Beautiful in its simplicity and bold in its truthfulness." ~ Indies Today ~

"The joys and sorrows, challenges, and triumphs of life are highlighted throughout these poems." ~ Readers' Favorite ~

"In Deep Craving, it is easy to see the beauty of poetry. The allegories and representations of nature are clear and attached to the feelings of life." ~ Literary Titan ~

"Giampaolo weaves passion, philosophy, and mysticism into a powerful anthology that vividly explores the intricacies of the human experience." ~ BookView ~

"Unveiling these poetic reflections in the stark and simple forms of haiku, tanka, and chöka, Giampaolo's mastery of these revered styles is undeniable." ~ Self-Publishing Review ~

"Joe Giampaolo crafts a luminous and meditative collection...Elegant, philosophical, and deeply human, this book is both a poetic retreat and a soulful guide for modern readers." ~ Chicago Book Review ~

Awards & Accolades for Joe's Poetry

~ 2023 American Writing Awards, Winner, Contemporary Poetry (Deep Craving)
~ 2023 Literary Titan Book Award, Gold Medal (Deep Craving)
~ 2024 Los Angeles Book Festival, Honorable Mention (From the Book of Dreams)
~ 2025 London Book Festival, Honorable Mention, Poetry (Metanoia)
~ 2025 American Writing Awards, Finalist, Poetry (I Have Danced with Angels)
~ 2025 Global Book Awards, Bronze Medal, Poetry (I Have Danced with Angels)

~The US Review of Books, Five-Star Badge, Recommended Book (An Unlikely Sunset)
~ Indies Today, Five-Star Badge (Deep Craving)
~ Readers' Favorite, Five-Star Seal (Deep Craving)
~ Readers' Favorite, Five-Star Seal ~ (From the Book of Dreams)
~ BookView, Five-Star Seal ~ (Metanoia)
~ BookShelfie, Five-Star Seal ~ (An Unlikely Sunset)