Egg/Shell

The Poetry Book Society Spring Choice 2024 is a diptych, a double album, that explores early motherhood and miscarriage, the impact of a spouse's gender transition, and the dissolution of a marriage. Victoria Kennefick is acclaimed as one of the boldest poetic voices to emerge in recent years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Carcanet Press Ltd

The Poetry Book Society Spring Choice 2024 presents a collection of powerful and thought-provoking poetry that delves into the depths of human emotions and experiences. One of the standout works in this collection is "Egg/Shell," a diptych by Victoria Kennefick that explores themes of early motherhood, miscarriage, gender transition, and the dissolution of marriage.

In her second book, Kennefick employs a unique and innovative form that combines monologues, hybrid forms, and piercing lyrics to create a deeply personal and introspective exploration of these complex subjects. Through her poetic voice, she shatters and recombines the lives of her characters, offering a raw and honest portrayal of their struggles and triumphs.

One of the most striking aspects of "Egg/Shell" is its boldness and willingness to tackle difficult topics. Kennefick does not shy away from the pain and complexity of these experiences, but rather confronts them head-on with honesty and emotional depth. Her poems are filled with raw emotion, from the joy of motherhood to the heartache of miscarriage, and from the confusion and uncertainty of gender transition to the pain of marital dissolution.

Through her poetic language, Kennefick manages to convey the immense emotional weight of these experiences in a way that is both accessible and relatable. Her use of metaphor and imagery is powerful, allowing her readers to see the world through her characters' eyes and to feel the depth of their emotions.

One of the standout poems in "Egg/Shell" is titled "The Weight of a Name," in which Kennefick explores the impact of a spouse's gender transition on a marriage. In this poem, she juxtaposes the traditional roles of men and women and questions the validity of gender binaries. Through her use of vivid imagery and powerful language, Kennefick creates a sense of confusion and uncertainty that is both haunting and thought-provoking.

Another notable aspect of "Egg/Shell" is its formal ingenuity. Kennefick employs a variety of poetic techniques, including rhyme, alliteration, and repetition, to create a sense of rhythm and flow in her poems. This allows her to convey her messages in a way that is both accessible and engaging, making her work accessible to a wide range of readers.

In addition to her poetic prowess, Kennefick is also known for her generosity and emotional complexity. Her poems are filled with empathy and compassion, offering a glimpse into the lives of her characters and the struggles they face. Through her poetry, Kennefick encourages her readers to think critically about the world around them and to consider the impact of their actions on others.

Overall, "Egg/Shell" by Victoria Kennefick is a stunning and powerful collection of poetry that explores the depths of human emotions and experiences. Through her boldness, innovation, and emotional depth, Kennefick breaks new ground in the world of poetry, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on the world. Whether you are a seasoned poetry reader or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 215 x 136 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800173835