In Springtime

A nameless main character is lost in the woods in Sarah Blake's epic poem "In Springtime." They encounter a pregnant horse, a curious mouse, and a dead bird, which examines what makes us human and how loss shapes us. The poem takes readers into a magical world without using any magic, just the strangeness of the woods.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2023
Publisher: Wesleyan University Press

In Sarah Blake's captivating epic poem, we embark on a journey alongside a nameless protagonist who finds themselves lost in the enigmatic woods. As they navigate this unfamiliar terrain, they encounter a tapestry of life, forging connections with the trees, the rain, and the diverse array of animals that inhabit the forest. What initially brought them to these perilous depths is a mystery, and they question whether they possess the courage to endure the trials that lie ahead. Yet, the world surprises them with its breathtaking beauty and enigmatic allure, presenting them with unexpected encounters. Along their path, they cross paths with a pregnant horse, a curious mouse, and a haunting presence—the ghost of a deceased bird. This spectral entity, determined to haunt them relentlessly, casts a shadow over their every step. Blake delves deep into the essence of humanity, exploring the complexities of identity when detached from the confines of society. He questions the significance of identity in a world where it often feels like a mere facade, and how loss shapes our very being. Set against a stunning backdrop of the woods, "In Springtime" transports readers into a magical realm that unfolds without the use of any overt magic. It is through the strange and enigmatic nature of the forest that Blake weaves his tale, creating a world that is both captivating and unsettling.

Within the realm of dreams, the protagonist experiences a series of vivid and intricate visions. In one dream, they unearth the bird, a symbol of impending doom. Determined to uncover the truth, they return to the same spot and discover a gun, a weapon they were meant to leave behind. Guilt and confusion consume them as they realize their mistake. In the next dream, the horse returns, jolting them awake. Though they are still asleep, the dreams continue to torment them. Dreams, like twisted mirrors, hold a power that is both alluring and dangerous. In the subsequent dream, the protagonist finds themselves in a desolate desert, a world entirely different from the familiar forests they have traversed. The absence of grass, the scent of foliage, and the shadows cast by trees leave them disoriented and bewildered. Amidst this unfamiliar landscape, they find humor in the sight of a cactus, a plant that holds no resemblance to the lush greenery they have known. Yet, in the next dream, the protagonist is granted a glimpse of the ghostly bird's spirit. Its garbled tongue fills them with fear, as they anticipate the impending chaos that it will bring. However, they soon remember that the bird's true nature is one of song, its melodies resonating through the air. The haunting presence that once threatened their sanity now serves as a reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the darkest of times.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780819500304