The Queen of Peace Room

Lisa M. Rohlmann is a former business owner in Shelburne, Ontario.

Magie Dominic, a writer, peace activist, curator, poet, and artist, was
born in Newfoundland but spent most of her adult life in New York. Her
essays and poetry have been published in many anthologies and journals
in Canada, the United States, India, and Italy; her artwork has been
exhibited in Toronto and New York.

In this wrenching memoir, Dominic describes the abuses she endured
during her childhood, as well as the trauma of being stalked and raped
as an adult. There were times when depression hit so hard that suicide
seemed the only option. At the same time, she fondly recalls the happy
times at Cino’s Caffe during the 1960s, when she was part of a group
of young artists who practised their theatrical talents on the Off-Off
Broadway stage. Years later, she had to witness many of her friends
wasting away with AIDS.

A new chapter in Dominic’s life began to form when she participated
in a workshop at a retreat run by Catholic nuns. It was at this remote
and peaceful place that she experienced a quiet transformation, laying
bare her memories of past abuses and finally acknowledging the
deep-seated trauma caused by others. On her last walk through the woods,
she clearly heard the voice of Jesus comforting her.

The emotional journey Dominic recounts may be of particular interest to
students of psychology. For the general reader, The Queen of Peace Room
provides a glimpse into the humble and improvised beginnings of many a
great artist.