The Attending by Matthew Mumber


The Attending
Title : The Attending
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : 1946507156
ISBN-10 : 9781946507150
Language : English
Format Type : Kindle Edition
Number of Pages : 68
Publication : Published May 1, 2023

Matthew Mumber writes in a long tradition of physician-poets, from Whitman to Keats to William Carlos Williams. Like these earlier models, Mumber exhibits acute attention to the its musculature, its sinews, the head, the heart. Mumber underscores the practice central to this knowledge, an 'Attending' that is as much a listening and a waiting as it is an act of care. He also extends these various, if difficult modes of attention to objects in the natural world, portraying flora, fauna, and the land itself with the same care he directs toward the patients under his charge. The poems in this collection thus attend in various senses of that they are conflicted and inclusive, vulnerable and precise--sharp as a surgeon's knife.

The Attending Reviews

  • Sachi Ito

    Beautifully written

    This book of poetry is beautifully written by author, Matthew Mumber. From the opening pages, we get such a heartfelt perspective about life and death. Matthew is great with descriptive words. His poetry has evoked a lot of emotion in me. This book has reminded me of the importance of life and appreciating those around us. Definitely one of my favorite poetry books.

  • Valeria Koopman

    The greatest service to humanity is the recognition and expression of our deeper selves.

    In the healing and spiritual philosophical and practical realms, mindful attendance, impactful ideas, and well-being contributions color our minds and awaken our hearts. Matt Mumber is celebrated as a poet, doctor, and seeker for being someone who serves humanity with the presence of his soul.

    Mumber’s work is a statement of a beautiful vision our hearts long to experience; emphatic physicians interacting and connecting to life and others from the depth of their own being.

    In The Attending, Matt’s poems reveal the dance of life through words and the eternal silence between the words— but above all, his poems are the energetic expression of our interconnectedness, in essence.

    A wonderful book!

  • Danielle “Dana” N.

    In "The Attending," Matthew Mumber beautifully weaves a tale of compassion and resilience in the face of adversity. Through the eyes of Dr. John Parker, readers are immersed in the challenging world of oncology, where hope and despair coexist. Mumber skillfully demonstrates the importance of genuine human connections and empathy in the healing process. This poignant and thought-provoking novel offers not just a gripping story, but also a transformative message, inspiring readers to reevaluate their relationships with others and themselves. A compelling read that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

  • Veronica Adams

    Matthew Mumber's The Attending is one of the best poetry books I have ever read by a doctor in my life. I love the unique subject matter that the Mumber has used in his poetry book such his own experience as a physician, the ritual of a tea ceremony, etc. I can't really explain it but this poetry book had an usual, calming effect on me. I think that this poetry book should be used as respite for stressed out medical students. They would better understanding the author's experience.

  • Tara Dodson

    beautiful poetry of life experiences

    In The Attending, the author draws on his life’s work and experiences, presence in certain circumstances, to weave beautiful poetry. In his work, he connects the symmetry of the mundane to the beautiful experiences of life. A wonderful piece of art.