Poetry and Time

This book explores the interplay between visual art and poetry, featuring Max Neumann's artwork and Joachim Sartorius's insightful commentary on themes of time and transience.

For nearly fifty years, German artist Max Neumann has developed a rich visual vocabulary that is both dark and compelling. His artwork has served as a powerful accompaniment to the literary creations of renowned authors like Cees Nooteboom, Seamus Heaney, Fernando Pessoa, and László Krasznahorkai. This collaboration between visual art and poetry creates a unique dialogue that enhances the impact of both forms of expression.

In Poetry and Time, viewers are invited to explore Neumann's haunting images alongside the thoughtful text of poet Joachim Sartorius. Sartorius reflects on the inherent silence found within poetry, suggesting that while poems are aware of their purpose, they often remain unspoken. Through his analysis of works by poets such as Dickinson, Rilke, and Shakespeare, he delves into themes of transience and mortality, examining how these elements shape the essence of poetry and its ability to transcend time.

The synergy between Sartorius's insights and Neumann's thirty evocative paintings creates a remarkable experience for readers and art lovers alike. This volume stands out as an exquisite collection that not only showcases Neumann's artistry but also invites readers to ponder the deeper meanings behind poetry and its relationship with time. Poetry and Time is truly a rare gem in the world of art and literature.