Newberg Writer Illuminates Aging Process Through Poetry

NEWBERG, Ore.—Nancy Thomas, a Newberg resident and poet, released her latest collection, “The Language of Light: poems of wit, whimsy, and (maybe) wisdom,” on October 2, 2024. The book promises readers a journey through various stages of life, from childhood to later years, all viewed through Thomas’ unique lens of humor and introspection.

Thomas, who began writing at the age of 7, draws inspiration from her surroundings, particularly her retirement community.

“I decided to name myself a spy and to listen wherever I went,” she said. “The people around here have become the source of many poems.”

The collection showcases Thomas’ love for wordplay and her ability to find humor in life’s challenges.

“Humor allows me to bring these values together,” Thomas said. “I think of another set of words in Spanish: gracia, gracias, and graciosa, which mean grace, thank you, and funny.”

Thomas’ poetry often incorporates the voices of others, including her grandson and husband. In “Three Conversations in the Exercise Room,” she steps back, allowing strangers’ voices to take center stage until the concluding section.

“One of the greatest sources for poetry is people—their stories, the things they do, the ways they love, and the words they use,” Thomas said. “Pay attention. Listen well. Prepare to be surprised and delighted.”

The structure of “The Language of Light” guides readers through different stages of life, offering insights on personal growth and perspective. 

“I can feel the fear of that 5-year-old child, the awkwardness of the adolescent, the dilemmas of motherhood, the uneasiness of a woman minister in a world of male leaders.”

As the collection progresses, the tone becomes more upbeat and curious. Thomas attributes this to her growth as a poet, citing an increased willingness to be vulnerable and a newfound freedom to critique her culture and faith.

“I’m learning to combine humility, humor, and hope as I explore my life now and the challenges of growing older,” she said. “I’m freer to write about my fears, uncertainties, and doubts without defensiveness.”

Thomas’ background in Latin America, where she discovered a vocation for training writers of different cultures, has influenced her approach to writing and cultural understanding. Her previous books of poetry include “Of Deity and Bones,” “The Secret Colors of God,” and “Close to the Ground.”

Looking ahead, Thomas is embarking on a lifelong project of writing poetry inspired by the entire Bible. “This collection of poetry is not mystical, academically theological, expositional, or even overtly spiritual. It’s conversational, narrative, and often humorous,” she explains.

“The Language of Light” will be available for purchase at Fernwood Press and the Barclay Press Bookstore.

As readers explore her latest work, they can expect to find a collection that, in the author’s own words, showcases how “Wisdom and whimsy / hold hands, / opposites who attract.”