This collection of thirty poems showcases Lawson's ability to derange language in any form be it free verse, prose poetry, or senryu.

"The Scars Are Complimentary is a great introduction to the range of John Edward Lawson's playful, dark, and challenging imagination. The book captures his voice in a can, and when you read the work, it pops out like one of those springy snakes hiding in the nutjar. Some would say Lawson's work is experimental, but the word 'twisted' comes to mind when reading this book. And I don't mean twisted in the conventional sense. Lawson twists words like a dishwasher with an oddly shaped sponge, wringing deep meaning out of the soggy pillow. Wait -- no. That's your brain he's got in his hands. Twist away."
--Michael A. Arnzen

Praise for John's previous work:

" . . . the text unfurls. 'Unfurls' is not really the world; something suggesting torrential would be more accurate . . . the text is, in fact, infused with energy; that is one of its virtues . . . the language moves with a life of its own, countering logic, distorting meanings, even parading for its own sake. The result is a peculiar sort of pathos comedy, which is impressive. The writing throughout is supple and efficient . . . a strong writer, indisputably."
--Harold Jaffe, author & editor

" . . . a surreal, Dali-like experience!"
--Mitone Bennet, owner of RedWritingHood.com

"This is just ill and I love it!"
--Brigit D. Knox, Editor