Lives

The Kathryn A. Morton Prize in Poetry was awarded to Emily Evans for her book "Lives," which was described as intimate, expansive, and hopeful. The poems combine music with matter, creating a swoon-and-startle experience. The book explores ordinary lives, historical occupancy, and the yearning for connection, asking if we would turn to each other in times of need.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Sarabande Books, Incorporated

The Kathryn A. Morton Prize in Poetry was awarded to 2021's winner, Victoria Chang. Victoria Chang was awarded the PEN Voelcker Award for her book "Obit." The book is described as intimate, expansive, and in moments, willfully hopeful.

The poems in "Obit" are matched with music, creating a unique reading experience that involves both swoon and startle. The opening line of the poem "When it folds open, the rule-less rile / of sky," by Evans, sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The poem describes the sky as a place of endless possibilities, with comets and giants dancing in the sky.

The poems also explore themes of love, connection, and ordinary life. In the poem "And also: / books, chamomile, and more kissing," Evans writes about the simple pleasures of life, such as reading books, drinking chamomile tea, and kissing. The poem is panoramic in time and space, capturing the essence of ordinary lives and our occupancy within history and the universe.

The poem "And if I turned to you now, my one wet muscle run dry, would you / turn to me? And what else could my heart be for if not to try?" asks the reader to consider the importance of connection and the yearning for love. The poem is a plea for connection, a reminder that our hearts are meant to be used for something more than just our own pleasure.

Overall, "Obit" is a stunning collection of poetry that explores the complexities of life, love, and connection. Victoria Chang's use of music and her poetic language create a powerful and moving experience for the reader. The Kathryn A. Morton Prize in Poetry is well-deserved for this exceptional work.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781946448965