Apocalypse: An Anthology

A new anthology of Apocalyptic or neo-romantic poetry since the 1940s, featuring over 150 poets, many well-known and others forgotten. Includes never-before-anthologized material and reprints of poems from the 1940s. Offers an overview of the visionary-modernist British and Irish poetry of the mid-century, its antecedents, and its aftermath.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2020
Publisher: Carcanet Press Ltd

This first anthology of apocalyptic or neo-romantic poetry since the nineteen-forties includes over 150 poets, many well known (Dylan Thomas, W.S. Graham), and others quite forgotten (Ernest Frost, Paul Potts). Over forty of the poets are women, of whom Edith Sitwell is among the most exuberant. Much of the contents has never previously been anthologised; many poems are reprinted for the first time since the 1940s. The poetry of the Second World War appears in a new context, as do early Tomlinson and Hill. Here readers can enjoy an overview of the visionary-modernist British and Irish poetry of the mid-century, its antecedents and its aftermath. As a period style and as a body of work, apocalyptic poetry will come as a revelation to most readers.

Introduction:
The apocalyptic or neo-romantic poetry has been a significant genre in the literary world since the nineteen-forties. This anthology, which includes over 150 poets, marks a resurgence of this genre after a period of relative obscurity. The book showcases a diverse range of poets, from well-known names such as Dylan Thomas and W.S. Graham to lesser-known figures like Ernest Frost and Paul Potts.

Women Poets:
One notable aspect of this anthology is the presence of over forty women poets. Among them, Edith Sitwell stands out as one of the most exuberant and influential. Her vibrant and visionary poetry has left a lasting impact on the literary landscape. It is remarkable to see her work included alongside that of her male counterparts, highlighting the importance of women's contributions to apocalyptic and neo-romantic poetry.

New Contexts:
The anthology offers a fresh perspective on the poetry of the Second World War and the early Tomlinson and Hill. By placing these poems in the context of the mid-century, readers can appreciate the historical and cultural influences that shaped their writing. The poems evoke a sense of urgency and resilience, reflecting the challenges and uncertainties of the time.

Revelation for Readers:
Apocalyptic poetry is a revelation for most readers, offering a unique and captivating perspective on the world. The poems are filled with imagery, symbolism, and metaphor, creating a vivid and immersive experience. They challenge traditional notions of beauty and order, offering a glimpse into the darker aspects of human nature and the human condition.

Conclusion:
This anthology is a valuable contribution to the literature of apocalyptic and neo-romantic poetry. It provides a comprehensive overview of this genre, showcasing the talent and diversity of poets who have contributed to it. The inclusion of women poets and the new contexts provided by the anthology make it an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex world of poetry.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 136 x 215 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784108182