Deformations
Exploring trauma and art through biographical and mythical lenses
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Carcanet Press Ltd
Published:30th Jul '20
Should be back in stock very soon
This collection, Deformations, intricately weaves together biographical and mythical narratives, exploring themes of trauma, art, and cultural conventions.
In Deformations, the fifth collection from the acclaimed author of 'Joy', readers are invited to explore the intricate interplay of biographical and mythical narratives. This collection features two large-scale works that delve into profound themes of art, trauma, and the complexities of human experience. The poem 'Welfare Handbook' serves as a poignant examination of the life and legacy of Eric Gill, a renowned English letter cutter and sculptor, whose artistic contributions are overshadowed by his troubling personal history. Through a lyrical lens, the poem navigates the intersections of aesthetics, subjectivity, and violence, drawing upon Gill's own letters and writings to create a compelling narrative.
The second major work, 'Pitysad', presents a series of fragmented reflections inspired by characters and themes from Homer's Odyssey. This piece contemplates the ways in which trauma is often masked and transformed through the lenses of myth and art, revealing the deeper scars that lie beneath the surface. Connecting these two significant works are individual poems that reflect on the creation and destruction of cultural and mythical conventions, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of identity and heritage.
Deformations not only showcases the author's lyrical prowess but also challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about art, history, and the human condition. With its rich tapestry of themes and narratives, this collection is both thought-provoking and deeply resonant.
'Dugdale proves herself a powerful voice by writing about visual art, poetry, and history, 'in reverse'' - Antony Huen
- Short-listed for The Derek Walcott Poetry Prize 2021
- Short-listed for T.S. Eliot Prize 2020
ISBN: 9781784108984
Dimensions: 216mm x 135mm x 9mm
Weight: unknown
104 pages