Focusing on Ted Hughes's formative years in Mexborough, this book reveals how his experiences in South Yorkshire from 1938 to 1951 shaped his poetic identity. It explores his interactions with the local environment, education, literature, and personal relationships, highlighting their significant influence on his later work and acclaim as a poet. Through this lens, the narrative uncovers the crucial elements that contributed to his artistic development.
A lifelong football enthusiast combines his passions for the sport and poetry in this chapbook, featuring a selection of twenty poems that capture the essence of football's history. The collection reflects the author's journey from a grand poetic vision to a focused exploration of the game's significance. With a nod to the iconic players and moments, the poems showcase a deep love for football while humorously hinting at the unexpected conclusion involving Messi, offering readers a unique blend of sport and art.
The collaboration between poet Steve Ely and photographer Michael Faint captures the essence of the tidal island of Orasaigh, situated on the coast of South Uist at Boisdale. The work intertwines evocative poetry with striking photography, reflecting the unique landscape and atmosphere of this coastal region. Through their combined artistry, Ely and Faint invite readers to experience the beauty and inspiration drawn from Orasaigh's natural surroundings.
Improvisational poetry emerges from contemplative readings of select chapters from the 1611 King James Bible, specifically Matthew VI, Mark V, Luke XV, and Luke X. The author introduces the term "Lectio Violant," a play on "Lectio Divina," to describe this unique approach, which diverges from traditional devotional reading aimed at fostering a closer connection to God. While the intent may differ, the exploration of scripture through these poems invites readers to engage with the text in an unexpected way.
Exploring the complexities of violence, the collection delves into historical and contemporary conflicts, including the First World War and the Rwandan genocide. Steve Ely examines the multifaceted nature of brutality, rejecting simplistic narratives in favor of a deeper understanding of its causes. His poetry draws connections across diverse subjects, from ancient Egypt to modern gang violence, ultimately highlighting the resilience of ordinary people against injustice and oppressive systems. The work offers a profound reflection on humanity's darker aspects while searching for hope.
The poem creatively captures the daily lives of the Common, Pygmy, and Water shrews, intertwining their ecological realities with broader themes. Through the lens of shrew behavior, it delves into human nature, personal experiences, capitalism, the Anthropocene, and war, offering a rich tapestry of interconnected ideas. Its innovative structure invites readers to consider both the specific and the universal, making profound connections between the lives of these small creatures and larger existential concepts.
New poems by Steve Ely, Zaffar Kunial, Denise Riley, Warsan Shire, and John Glenday
