Following Scan Will Last Five Minutes

The Cancer Journals by Audre Lorde inspired Lieke Marsman to write The Following Scan Will Last Five Minutes, a work of poetry, social criticism, and autobiography that explores the state of contemporary Dutch politics and the rhetoric surrounding her disease. Sophie Collins beautifully translated the book.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 62 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2019
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

The Cancer Journals, penned by the renowned poet Audre Lorde, serve as a powerful testament to her unwavering resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Within these profound writings, Lorde expresses her profound desire to avoid allowing her anger, pain, and fear surrounding cancer to become yet another silent chapter in her life. Instead, she courageously chooses to confront these emotions openly, seeking to extract whatever strength lies at the core of her experience. This guiding principle informs the creation of her remarkable work, "The Following Scan Will Last Five Minutes."

Written in the aftermath of Dutch writer Lieke Marsman's cancer diagnosis, this collection of short poems is intricately anchored by an essay that delves deeply into Lorde's journal entries and personal reflections on cancer. Marsman explores a wide range of topics, including the state of contemporary Dutch politics and the pervasive rhetoric surrounding her disease, drawing upon the insights of Susan Sontag's influential work, "Illness as Metaphor."

"The Following Scan" emerges as a multifaceted masterpiece, blending poetry, social criticism, and autobiography seamlessly. It is an honest and unflinching account of a period in the author's life, where pretension is abandoned in pursuit of autonomy and self-knowledge. Through the skilled translation of poet Sophie Collins, Lorde's words resonate with even greater depth and beauty, capturing the essence of her profound journey.

In addition to the poetic brilliance, this book includes a poignant translators note, crafted in the form of a letter to her author and friend. It provides a deeper insight into the creative process and the profound connection between the translator and the text, adding an extra layer of depth and appreciation to the reader's experience.

"The Cancer Journals" and "The Following Scan Will Last Five Minutes" stand as testament to the enduring power of poetry to heal, inspire, and ignite change. Audre Lorde's words continue to resonate with people worldwide, reminding us of the importance of embracing our emotions, challenging societal norms, and seeking solace and understanding in the face of adversity. These works serve as a powerful reminder that poetry has the capacity to transcend boundaries and touch the hearts of countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.

Weight: 86g
Dimension: 237 x 122 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786942135