"After all, 'any progressive social change must be imagined first,' and lately Espada has been doing a lot of imagination. Here he sets down not merely the basis of his convictions but their putative outcome. He has clarified an aesthetics of activism."—American Book Review
"No, this is not an instruction manual on how to overthrow the government. This a manual on how to save a people. And to jaded eyes and ears it will seem I mean only a few people. I mean us all, all of the people."—Tony Diaz, founder of Librotraficante
"In this book, full of Martin Espada's intelligence and heart, poetry emerges as passionate artistic practice, and essays as acts of tough-minded engagement."—Adrienne Rich
"The essays are beautifully written, disciplined, reasoned and wise... It is a dignity enhancing book. A freedom enhancing book. Given that it is banned, those of us with the freedom to make a noise and to ensure it is read as widely as possible should do so. Martin Espada is an excellent poet and essayist and a man who has never compromised in his defense of democracy and his opposition to all forms of tyranny." —Alan Dent, Mistress Quickly's Bed
"In this finely wrought collection of essays, Martin Espada embodies the heroic character of the poet who intersects truths with beauty. Keep telling our truths, carnal. Keep singing for us their horrible beauty!" —Luis J. Rodriguez, Poet Laureate of Los Angeles and author of Always Running: La Vida Loca: Gang Days in L.A.