Lying In: Poems

The collection "Lying In" explores the expansion and fracturing of the self into motherhood and childhood, as well as the loss of a child. It is a devastating and vulnerable portrait of an in-between time, and the person who emerges on the other side.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Milkweed Editions

A poignant and vulnerable collection that delves into the complexities of high-risk pregnancy and new motherhood amidst the backdrop of grief. Elizabeth Metzger's poetic exploration takes us into the realm of confinement, where the specter of death casts a shadow over every outcome. Through these poems, we witness a profound expansion and fragmentation of the self, encompassing motherhood, childhood, past selves, and the unknown future. The child assumes the role of parent, the parent becomes child, and the child arrives, yet somehow, they are lost in the process. This newfound loss haunts the newfound life, transforming it into a delicate balance between "one or two lives." Metzger's exploration is filled with ambivalence and profound emotion as she grapples with the paradoxical nature of experiencing immense joy and profound mourning, profound longing, and creeping numbness simultaneously. She courageously delves into the darkness within, exploring the depths of the gloomy room, the inner body, the afterlife, and the pre-language mind. In her quest for self-discovery, she casts a searchlight across the underworld, reminiscent of Eurydice's journey, in search of her own identity.

Lying In is an exquisite portrait of an in-between time, capturing the essence of the person who emerges on the other side. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, as it navigates the treacherous waters of loss and transformation. Through Metzger's poignant words, we are invited to reflect on the profound changes that occur during this transitional period and the transformative power of love and resilience.

This collection offers a profound exploration of the human experience, reminding us of the complexities and beauty that can arise from the darkest of times. It is a testament to the power of poetry to capture the essence of our lives and to offer solace and understanding to those who are navigating the uncharted waters of grief and loss.

Dimension: 215 x 139 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781639550104