Dual - Poems

Matthew Minicucci's fourth poetry collection, Dual, explores masculinity, aggression, and violence through the grammatical concept of the dual, which is neither singular nor plural. The poems include the elegy, palinode, and contrapuntal and align contemporary moments with key texts from Western literature. The book argues that there is an unalienable dual between the observer and the observed, the self and the self as confessed to another.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 116 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2023
Publisher: Acre Books

In his captivating fourth poetry collection, Matthew Minicucci delves deep into the intricate realms of masculinity, aggression, and violence, offering a thought-provoking exploration of these complex themes. Through the lens of the dual, a grammatical concept that straddles the boundaries between singular and plural, Minicucci weaves a tapestry of poems that evoke a profound sense of introspection. While the concept may have faded in the English language, it remains prevalent in other languages both contemporary and ancient, adding an intriguing layer of cultural richness to his work.

The poems in this collection are a testament to Minicucci's poetic prowess, employing a diverse range of forms such as the elegy, palinode, and contrapuntal. These forms not only showcase his artistic versatility but also serve to enhance the thematic depth of the collection. The elegy, for instance, provides a poignant reflection on loss and grief, while the palinode offers a contrasting perspective, exploring the complexities of redemption and forgiveness. The contrapuntal, on the other hand, combines two poems into a single, intricate narrative, creating a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives.

What sets this collection apart is Minicucci's ability to seamlessly align contemporary moments with key texts from Western literature, including ancient Greek epics. By juxtaposing these timeless narratives with the realities of modern life, Minicucci prompts us to reevaluate our perceptions of aggression and violence. He challenges us to consider the ways in which these issues manifest in different contexts and cultures, and to explore the complex interplay between the self and the other.

Through his poetic lens, Minicucci explores the multifaceted nature of masculinity, challenging traditional notions of toughness and aggression. He explores the ways in which men navigate the pressures of societal expectations, the trauma of war, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. The poems are filled with raw emotion and vivid imagery, allowing the reader to empathize with the characters and feel the weight of their experiences.

At the same time, Minicucci recognizes the importance of finding moments of lightness and humor in the midst of darkness. He skillfully weaves in unexpected moments of levity, comparing the complications of love to "reading the Iliad and realizing, sure, there's anger, but before that, there's just a lot of camping." These moments of unexpected humor provide a much-needed respite from the intense emotional journey of the collection, adding a touch of humanity and relatability to the characters.

In conclusion, Matthew Minicucci's fourth poetry collection, Dual, is a profound exploration of masculinity, aggression, and violence. Through the dual lens, Minicucci offers a fresh perspective on these complex themes, challenging our assumptions and prompting us to reevaluate our understanding of these issues. The collection's use of diverse poetic forms, coupled with its seamless integration of contemporary and historical narratives, creates a rich and immersive experience for the reader. Whether you are a poetry enthusiast or someone seeking to explore the darker aspects of human nature, Dual is a must-read that will leave you contemplating the complexities of the human experience long after you turn the last page.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 177 x 229 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781946724670