Dressing for the Afterlife

Dressing for the Afterlife is a collection of poems by Maria Taylor that explores love, life, and how we adapt to the passage of time, featuring Joan Crawford, James Bond, motherhood, heritage, and inheritance, and women finding their wings and taking flight.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 10 September 2020
Publisher: Nine Arches Press

Dressing for the Afterlife is a captivating and poignant second collection of poems from the talented British Cypriot poet Maria Taylor. This collection delves into the profound themes of love, life, and the ever-changing nature of time, offering readers a mesmerizing journey through a world of emotions and possibilities.

In these poems, Taylor takes us on a whimsical and enchanting ride, exploring the glamorous allure of silent film star goddesses, the serene beauty of moonlit seasons, and the ghosts of other alternate lives that could have been. With a sharp wit and a vibrant spirit, she weaves a tapestry of bittersweet humor and brio, creating a world where Joan Crawford feistily simmers and James Bond's modern incarnation is mistaken for an illicit lover.

The writing in this collection is consistently crisp and vivid, offering a rich tapestry of imagery and sensory details. Taylor's poems examine motherhood, heritage, and inheritance, unearthing stories woven within the faltering dance steps of girlhood, the rhythmic thump of a sewing machine in the fading days of the rag trade, and the effervescent fizz and bubble of a chip-shop fryer. Throughout, there is a sense of women finding their wings and taking flight, as Taylor's own poems soar and defiantly choose their own adventures.

One of the standout features of this collection is Taylor's ability to capture the essence of womanhood. She explores the complexities and contradictions of being a woman, from the strength and resilience of mothers to the vulnerability and tenderness of daughters. Through her vivid portrayals, Taylor invites readers to see women as multifaceted and complex individuals, capable of soaring to great heights and embracing their own journeys.

Dressing for the Afterlife is a testament to Maria Taylor's poetic prowess and her ability to create a world that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. This collection will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, offering a glimpse into the depths of the human experience and the power of imagination. Whether you are a fan of poetry or simply seeking a captivating and enriching reading experience, this collection is a must-read.

Weight: 114g
Dimension: 145 x 215 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913437015