Headwaters

Poems

Ellen Bryant Voigt author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:WW Norton & Co

Published:13th Jan '15

Should be back in stock very soon

Headwaters cover

This collection of poems explores the contrasts of existence through vivid imagery and innovative structure, ultimately celebrating resilience and new beginnings in Headwaters.

In Headwaters, the poems surge forward with an urgent need to communicate, embodying a rawness that is both rash and tender. This collection explores the dichotomy of existence, presenting a world filled with contrasts—from the wild abandon of nature to the meticulous observations of the poet. Each poem introduces various animals, such as owls, groundhogs, and foxes, showcasing their unique survival skills. The poet mirrors this resilience, having honed her own skills through a lifetime of experiences, ultimately revealing the profound truth that every moment is a new beginning for all beings.

The collection is marked by its innovative style, as the poet chooses to eschew punctuation and traditional structure. This choice enhances the sense of urgency that permeates Headwaters, propelling the reader through its pages. The poems reflect a deep understanding that human experience, while rich, is often fleeting and ultimately leads to the realization that we are all perpetual learners in a complex world. The opening poem poses a question of progress, while the closing lines remind us of the cyclical nature of life, encapsulating the essence of growth and recovery.

Headwaters stands as a testament to the power of language and observation, offering wisdom that is refreshingly unpretentious. It invites readers to embrace the beauty of beginnings, encouraging a perspective that finds strength in vulnerability. This collection is a celebration of life, survival, and the endless journey of understanding ourselves and the world around us.

"Starred Review. Voigt's...eighth collection of poetry is defined by a liquid precision." "Extraordinary... A monument to the conscious mind's compulsion to order and interpret a chaotic world." -- Maria Hummel "These tough, wryly funny, wise, and poignant lyrics erode sorrow and embrace adaptation ... without denying beauty or love."

ISBN: 9780393350005

Dimensions: 211mm x 140mm x 8mm

Weight: 100g

64 pages