Of Time and Punishment, the recently released memoir by LCSC alum Jerry D. Mathes, is an exciting continuation of the work he has been doing since I first met him over two decades ago. I’ve always been a fan of Jerry’s writing–he is the author of six previous books of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, as well as librettos, screenplays, and play scripts–but this new book brings together his fascinating personal history with all the storytelling skill and talent he has tenaciously honed over those years. It’s a knockout.
The memoir begins in Nevada with Jerry’s ex-wife picking him up the day he is released from prison–what a provocative opening!–and it only gains speed from there. He is still a young man, once a decorated soldier, but one mistake in judgment sentenced him to the rank of felon. We follow him as he struggles to find work, feed himself, let go of friends who abandoned him, trust new relationships, and redeem the integrity and moral fiber he has always carried within himself. Of Time and Punishment is that rare thing: a memoir that reads with the rocket-fueled urgency of a page turner coupled with the sensibilities of a poet. By turns raucous and romantic, raw in its vulnerability, full of youthful determination and authentic regret, this book speaks to two elemental truths: our deepest desire is for human connection, and story will save your life.
