Ghost Variations: Poems

Elton Glaser's ninth book of poems is haunted by the loss of his wife, evoking memories of their times together and the joy in family and the natural world. With an irrepressible wit and music, Glaser never forgets that memory without passion would be better lost.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2023
Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press

Elton Glaser's ninth book of poems is deeply influenced by the loss of his wife, with each April bringing back the painful memory of her passing. The opening line candidly acknowledges the challenge of finding a language to express this profound grief: "I'm learning to speak in the accents of adieu." As the book unfolds through the seasons, it evokes the places that hold cherished memories of their shared experiences, from their youths in the South to their long marriage in the Midwest, and their travels around the world. Yet, amidst the sorrow, there are also moments of joy and appreciation for the blessings of family and the natural world: the presence of grandsons, the grandeur of "swaggering lilies," and the graceful image of a swan reminiscent of "a sullen bride in her white finery." Glaser's poetic voice is characterized by an irrepressible wit that infuses his lines with both celebration and elegy. He never loses sight of the wisdom expressed by Wallace Stevens, who noted that "Memory without passion would be better lost." Through his poetry, Glaser captures the complex interplay of emotions and memories, honoring his wife's legacy while embracing the beauty and resilience of life.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780822967194