Publications

Endymion or The State of Entropy.

Available at your local bookstore or at most online retailers like Amazon.

This is a mythological portrait of my struggle for self-actualization to integrate the conscious with the unconscious. Or to put it in another way, an illustrated fantasy which conjures a world in which archetypal characters from Greek mythology battle for dominance as Endymion, the main character attempts to wake himself from endless sleep. It is a part-epic battle, part-psychotherapeutic journey written in poetic meter as one continuous dream where Jupiter, Diana (manifesting in all three aspects of Hekate, Artemis, and Selene), Zephyrus, Hermes and Endymion wrestle with reason, fear, hope and divine inspiration.

Carl Jung created the term “active imagination” to describe a conscious method of experimentation by harnessing the creative imagination to bridge the gap with the unconscious mind with trance-like visions. This best describes how my work took shape when I was writing or should I say experiencing the first draft at the age of 27.

Thirty years later, the pandemic of 2020 resurfaced those same eternal questions about life, death and our relationship to the universe. The long hours of mandated isolation created the space to revisit my visions and decipher the symbols of that experience. I spent much of my time during those lockdowns piecing together the fragments of my writings for this publication. 

This unacted play is written in four acts and is lushly illustrated by the celebrated artist Rebecca Yanovskaya. I have also included a detailed reference section with personal commentaries and explanations on the archaic symbols and historical references used in the text and images.

Reviews and notable mentions:

-  Miskatonic Books review from Scott: "Having delved into numerous books, I’ve seldom encountered one that rivals the creativity found within these pages. Many authors and artist claim to pour their essence into their work, but Ward actually achieves this with unparalleled depth, forging a profound connection with the reader that transcends mere words. It’s a rare gift, requiring empathy and intuition from the reader. Some creations possess the power to reshape destinies, forever altering the path of those who encounter them. This book, much like a cherished ritual, belongs to that select category of golden insights that one thanks the stars for stumbling upon. If you are a fan of mythology and individuation then this is a valuable resource. For aficionados of Keats, or Shelley, this tome is a must-read. My two favorites from this vain are William Blake and Coleridge and Ward has a unique voice yet seems cut from a similar cloth. Ward’s narrative is unique yet complemented by the lush illustrations of Rebecca Yanovskaya, adding an additional layer of visual enchantment to an already mesmerizing experience. This makes the ‘book’ feel more like an immersive ‘production’ as the visual potency is matched by the contents. Mythology enthusiasts will find themselves delighted by the mythological references throughout the narrative."

- The amazing philosopher David Proud shared his thoughts on Amazon "Saying a great deal in a few words is the skill of a truly fine writer, and this intensely written work so packed with meaning that invites the reader to hone his or her interpretive skills is accompanied with some quite stunning and exquisite artwork that complements the text perfectly. " "Highly recommended, I was touched at a deep level of my being and I am always much appreciative of a work that can accomplish that."

- I had a fantastic discussion with the hosts of the Modern Romantic Podcast. 

- "If poetry and music still have a place in our lives and can influence our conceptual relationship with the cosmos we inhabit, Ward’s short but engaging and beautiful work helps revive what mystics of old and romantics of yesteryear sought—immersive enchantment with Beauty." Paul Krause. VogelinView.

- Here is a review from an author I deeply admire Rebecca Buchanan from evOke: "Ward’s Endymion is many things simultaneously; how many of these things you see or even attempt to understand will depend on how often you read the work and the depth of your reading. It is, first, an ode to the works of Keats and Shelley, a celebration of two masters of Romanticism who were lost far too young."  "Secondly, it is a sensual evocation; that is to say, the poem conjures feelings of disquiet, curiosity, uncertainty, melancholy, and a profound craving to know. Third, it is a philosophical exploration of human nature and our reason for being, with allusions to Greek mythology, NeoPlatonism, astrology, alchemy, and other esoteric fields." 

- Wild Alchemy Journal features Act II in a double page spread in the AIR edition.

- "For folks intrigued by the idea of drama about Romantic poetry, dreams and nightmares, and cosmic battles fought for the consciousness of one man, Endymion or The State of Entropy: A Lyrical Drama will not disappoint." Joshua Gage from the legendary Cemetery Dance Magazine on their review page.

- "This deserves many many readings." Denis Poisson features the bibliophile edition on Foolish Fish YouTube.

- "Endymion or The State of Entropy is a lyrical drama that re-shape your thoughts and your perception. Your fears and dreams. And, also, re-shape your true-self." Mordekai on Goodreads.

- "I devoured this book the same (as) gods and goddesses devour ambrosia and nectar, th(e) sweet goodness of the Greeks. I was immersed of how lyrical the writing was, imprinting on me like a permanent tattoo. It is beautiful and contemplative, and you would question yourself you don't know the answer to." Jesamae on BookSirens.

- "Endymion is a delight to the senses. The images it conjures in each line make the reader go back in time, to times that we almost always remember superficially but to which we owe a lot. Kurt recovers the romanticism, the emotional, the individual of the past, makes it his own, and presents it in a creative and eloquent way."
Alan D.D The Wild Hunt review.

- The Hermetic Library Blog posted a lovely feature on the bibliophile edition here. 

-"I recommend this beautiful book especially to fans of Keats and Shelley, of Jung, and to those that love the Ancient Greek and Roman myths. It is a lyrical play that is timeless and universal to our human experience." Lotus Noumenia News.

- "This is one of the best books I have ever read. You don't need to understand it if you don't but just enjoy it! WOW! Brilliant!" Dina Husseini on Goodreads.

- "With a stark reference to one of the great poems by John Keats, Endymion shares a name and a mythology.  Kurt R. Ward’s version of the stunning story preserves the electric prose and beautiful imagery, recreating it for a modern audience" Michael DeAngelo on Tellest.

- "I don't feel competent to review this book, although I should be, but I need to say something. I need to express my love for it! I won't dare analyze it, but it is beautiful in every way. Definitely worth the read. Also,the illustrations by Rebbeca Yanovskaya are just magical, like nothing I've seen so far." Katarina on Goodreads.

- "If you're a fan of Keats, Coleridge or Shelly, this is the book for you."
Daithi M Haxton Amazon.com.

- "'Beautifully lyrical with illustrations to match, this short drama will delight your senses. Accompanied with detailed notes and references, this book provides rich historical context as well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and would highly recommend it.'" Alicia Doyle Goodreads.

- "Omg what can I say about this book of poetry, it was amazing, if you love mythology then you will love this book, if you love poetry, you will love this book .. exciting and descriptive in its words, I found that the lyrical verse with illustrations to match just added so much to the overall book and feeling." Marie Carolin Artybits.

- "Endymion, or The State of Entropy is majestic narrative poem inspired by Greek mythology. This poem has wonderful imagery and amazing allegory to make a immersive reading experience. The illustrations throughout that accompanied the text were gorgeous. This is my first read from Kurt R. Ward but after reading Endymion, I’ll be rereading it until Ward’s next release because I simply cannot get enough!" Em on Goodreads.

The Special bibliophile first edition: stamped, individually numbered and printed by Drukkerij Robstolk Amsterdam. Hardbound in green linen with gold foil blocking with inside papers of 120 gsm Kamiko Suna and the book block is hand treated. 

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