The Long Pause and the Short Breath (Paperback or Softback)

"This collection of poems and photos beautifully illustrates the complex emotions of living in New York during a global pandemic. Nicole’s words put you at ease, while also reminding us of our humanity and strengthened bond of community.”

 ~Kelly Ripa, Entrepreneur, Host, Actress and Producer “

"As haunting and shattering as it is uplifting.  It’s an unrelenting and searing portrayal of a home to millions and cultural mecca brought to its knees. Yet Rubens’ lens always manages to find vibrancy in the city on pause, and her genius is illuminating the hope and resilience and redemption in the midst of the anguish.” ~ David Grae, Television Writer/Producer (Madam Secretary, Castle, Gilmore Girls, Without a Trace, Joan of Arcadia), Co-Founder Gotham Writers Workshop

“Through the lens of a native New Yorker, an incredible poetic and photographic record of a frightening time, punctuated by positivity. Poems that evoke images and photos that are like poetry. This powerful and poignant book articulates and visualizes the pandemic emotions of the millions of us who live in and love New York. An intimate poetic snapshot of pandemic life in NYC.” ~ Jennifer Ratner, Pediatrician, Founder of Friends of the East River Esplanade

A stunning debut collection of poems and photography that will make you pause and take your breath away.

With a keen artist’s eye and laser sharp insights, Nicole Freezer Rubens takes you inside the pandemic bubble of New York City through the lockdown, the endless sirens, the protests, the salutes to those who cared for us, the loss of lives and freedoms, and then out the other side when the quarantine was finally lifted. The stark and often shocking beauty of her photographs tell the story of a city on pause—but it’s the photos combined with the poetry that speaks volumes of lives upended that takes your breath away.  You’ll be swept up in a tidal wave of emotions and a love story to the “eternal flame of New York City that can never be extinguished.”