In the tradition of Walt Whitman's "Leaves of Grass" and Allen Ginsberg's "Howl," Animal Taggart's "reconciliation of the heart & the gun" is a bold, visceral exploration of modern American identity. This revolutionary work of performance poetry pushes the boundaries of contemporary literature, offering a raw and unfiltered examination of masculinity, violence, and the human condition in the 21st century. Animal Taggart delivers a searing, poetic exploration of modern masculinity, violence, and the search for authenticity in a world of contradictions. Drawing from diverse experiences as an entrepreneur and spiritual seeker, Taggart crafts a raw and unflinching eulogy for modern man. This two-act performance piece challenges readers to confront the duality of human nature-our capacity for both creation and destruction, love and violence. With a voice that is both tender and fierce, Taggart navigates the treacherous waters of power, vulnerability, and societal expectations. Key Features: A two-act poetic performance piece combining elements of theater, spoken word, and literary prose Provocative themes that challenge readers to confront societal norms and personal contradictions Rich, evocative language that echoes the best of the Beat Generation while forging a distinctly modern voice From the deserts of Arizona to the digital frontier, "reconciliation of the heart & the gun" is a bold call to embrace our full humanity. It's an invitation to dance with our demons, to find strength in openness, and to seek reconciliation not just with others, but with the conflicting forces within ourselves. Provocative, introspective, and unapologetically honest, this work will resonate with anyone grappling with what it means to be human in an increasingly complex and divided world. "reconciliation of the heart & the gun" is more than a poem-it's a literary event that signals the arrival of a powerful new voice in American literature. Whether you're a longtime enthusiast or new to the genre, Taggart's work offers an unforgettable reading experience that will challenge, inspire, and provoke long after the final page. This chapbook is perfect for: Fans of experimental literature and performance poetry Readers interested in contemporary explorations of masculinity and American identity Those who appreciate the raw honesty of Charles Bukowski or the spiritual seeking of Jack Kerouac and Henry Miller Anyone grappling with the complexities of modern life and seeking a fresh, uncompromising voice About the Author: Animal Taggart is a self-taught multifaceted artist, entrepreneur, and spiritual iconoclast. A former tech executive and founding member of Meow Wolf, Taggart is a working artist, writer, and contributor to various publications including Obscenity Press. He volunteers offering mentorship for men. His work stands at the intersection of philosophy and primal human experience, creating a literary landscape that is both familiar and startlingly new. His work explores the intersections of technology, spirituality, psychology, and sexuality. Taggart's diverse experiences-from overcoming personal struggles to building and selling businesses-infuse his writing with a unique blend of raw honesty and hard-won wisdom. Animal Taggart is a lifelong generalist who brings a unique perspective to American letters.