Settle

Theresa Munoz's Settle thoughtfully examines migration and technology, blending personal narrative with social commentary in a contemporary context.

In Settle, Canadian and Scottish poet Theresa Munoz explores the intertwined themes of migration and the digital landscape. With a unique blend of style and clarity, she reflects on the impermanence of contemporary life, drawing from her own experiences as an immigrant. Munoz's journey from Canada to Scotland mirrors that of her parents, who left the Philippines in search of better opportunities. Through her poetry, she captures the complexities of uprooting oneself and the bittersweet nature of homesickness and racism, all while maintaining an optimistic outlook on her new life.

The collection is divided into two significant sequences: the first, titled Settle, delves into her family's multi-generational experience of emigration. Munoz's candid reflections reveal both the challenges and joys of starting anew in a foreign land. The second sequence, Digital Life, presents a contemporary perspective on technology, highlighting the nuances of growing up in the age of social media. Munoz's observations range from the humor found in everyday digital interactions to the melancholy of feeling disconnected despite being constantly online.

Overall, Settle serves as a profound commentary on the dual existence of an immigrant navigating both the physical and digital realms. Munoz's ability to weave personal narrative with broader social themes makes this collection not only relatable but also essential reading for anyone interested in the modern human experience.