Free Cell

Anselm Berrigan's Free Cell features experimental poetry in two suites, showcasing innovative themes and a unique voice in contemporary American poetry.

In Free Cell, the second volume of the City Lights Spotlight series, Anselm Berrigan presents a collection of experimental poems that challenge traditional forms. As a prominent figure in contemporary poetry, Berrigan, who previously directed the St. Mark's Poetry Project, explores innovative themes through two distinct suites: Have a Good One and To Hell with Sleep. These suites are intricately connected by a central poem, creating a cohesive exploration of modern existence and the complexities of the human experience.

Berrigan's work in Free Cell showcases his unique voice and perspective, influenced by his lineage as the son of celebrated poets Ted Berrigan and Alice Notley. His poetry reflects a blend of personal and universal themes, inviting readers to engage with the text on multiple levels. The collection is marked by its experimental nature, pushing the boundaries of language and form, making it a significant contribution to contemporary American poetry.

As the poetry editor of The Brooklyn Rail and co-editor of The Collected Poems of Ted Berrigan, Berrigan's expertise shines through in this collection. Free Cell not only highlights his innovative approach but also reaffirms his status as one of the most influential poets under forty. This volume is a must-read for poetry enthusiasts and those interested in the evolution of modern poetic expression.