American Melancholy: Poems

American Melancholy is a new collection of poetry from Joyce Carol Oates, one of America's most insightful observers of the human heart and mind. The collection covers subjects such as loss, love, memory, the upheavals of modern age, the reality of our current predicaments, and the ravages of poverty, racism, and social unrest. Oates skillfully writes characters ranging from a former doctor at a Chinese Peoples Liberation Army hospital to Little Albert, a six-month-old infant who took part in a famous study that revealed evidence of classical conditioning in human beings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2021
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

A New Collection of Poetry from an American Literary Legend




Joyce Carol Oates, a renowned American literary figure, has released a new collection of poetry after a gap of twenty-five years. Her profound insights into the human heart and mind, coupled with her keen social consciousness, make her one of the most insightful and inspiring witnesses to the shared American history.


While Oates is widely celebrated for her prolific output of novels and short stories, which have achieved the status of contemporary classics, her dedication to poetry has remained unwavering. American Melancholy, a compilation of her finest work from the past few decades, showcases her exceptional poetic prowess.


This collection spans a wide range of subjects, from the personal to the political. It delves into themes such as loss, love, memory, the challenges of our modern age, the realities of our current predicaments, and the devastating effects of poverty, racism, and social unrest. Oates' writing is characterized by its immediate and engaging style, which allows her to convey her messages with clarity and depth.


One of the remarkable aspects of American Melancholy is the range of characters that Oates creates. From a former doctor at a Chinese Peoples Liberation Army hospital to Little Albert, a six-month-old infant who participated in a groundbreaking study that revealed evidence of classical conditioning in human beings, her characters are diverse and captivating.


Through her poetic lens, Oates explores the complexities of human experiences, shedding light on the triumphs and struggles of everyday life. Her work is a testament to her talent as a storyteller and her ability to connect with readers on a profound emotional level.


American Melancholy is a remarkable achievement that showcases Joyce Carol Oates' enduring brilliance as a poet and writer. It is a collection that will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, providing a glimpse into the depth of her imagination and the breadth of her societal concerns.


In conclusion, Joyce Carol Oates' new collection of poetry, American Melancholy, is a testament to her enduring legacy as a literary giant. With her insightful observations of the human condition, her commitment to social justice, and her exceptional poetic craftsmanship, Oates continues to inspire and engage readers worldwide. This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of words to convey meaning and emotion.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 160 x 236 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063035263