Dissociative Effect

Dissociative Effect

In Dissociative Effect , Dr. Redmer reminds us that humans have evolved to "think in stories, to talk in stories, to narrate an unfolding autobiography to ourselves in stories . . ." She reminds us that the narrative process is a template for healing as our narrative lives can be rewritten, retold, restoried. The "dissociative effect" is a reference to the anesthetic ketamine and the distance one can sometimes feel from living an embodied, authentic life. It is also a testimonial to the perspective shifting that is a necessary part of healing and the wisdom that can come from aging. Dr. Redmer uses Dissociative Effect  as her own blueprint for healing, exposing lessons learned when one looks deeply at the difficulties encountered in living a life. She writes, "I opened you up to me. And there/in the radiance of darkness/were the seeds for a deserving life." The topics covered in this manuscript are universal, and many readers will connect deeply with this content. "Original, deftly scripted, insightful, thought provoking, written with both wit and wisdom, intimately personal yet with a universal resonance, the verse comprising "Dissociative Effect" by Dr. Jacqueline Redmer is an absorbing, meditative, and fascinating collection -- and one that will linger in the mind and memory of the reader long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. This paperback edition of "Dissociative Effect" from Shanti Arts is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal and community library Contemporary American Poetry collections." James A. Cox, Editor-In-Chief, Midwest Book Review "Redmer, a physician, journeys through pain and reclaims wholeness in this introspective poetry collection." - Kirkus Reviews "Redmer's writing does that rare, beautiful work of tracing the intersections between her professional medical background and profoundly affecting artistry. The result is a deeply human book that deserves the highest praise and a wide readership." - Discovery Reviews "Redmer's poetry is not a passive reflection, but an active, pulsing lifeline." - Literary Titan Literary Titan Gold Book Award December 2025! Jacqueline S. Redmer m.d. practices family medicine and palliative care in the Driftless Region of southwest Wisconsin. She is also the mother of three school-aged girls. She started writing poetry during the Covid pandemic to steady herself during the brief pauses of a busy life. Her writing has been published in Examined Life Journal, The Intima Journal, Bramble, Wisconsin Poets Calendar, and Kevin MD Blog. She recently completed the Columbia University Narrative Medicine CPA program and has pursued creative writing courses through Stanford University Continuing Studies Program. Her favorite place to write is in the backyard sauna.