Mamiaith

Ness Owen's debut collection is bilingual, exploring themes of family, motherhood, politics, place, and belonging, with an underlying connection to her home earth in Mamiaith. The interplay of languages and shifts in meaning contribute to the musicality of the poems.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 48 pages
\n Publication date: 08 August 2019
\n Publisher: Arachne Press
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Nestled on the picturesque shores of Ynys Môn, off the North Wales coast, resides Ness Owen, a talented poet whose debut collection showcases her remarkable talent. This collection, partially bilingual, encompasses a diverse range of themes, from the profound depths of family and motherhood to the complexities of politics, place, and identity. At its core, there lies an unwavering connection to the earth that nurtured Ness's upbringing, fueling a deep longing, desire, and determination to express herself in the Mamiaith (Mothertongue) that she speaks, despite not having mastered the art of fluent writing. The interplay of languages and the subtle shifts in meaning between them infuse the poems with a captivating musicality, creating a tapestry of words that resonate with readers on a profound level.

Out of the collection's total number of poems, the majority were penned in English, while five were skillfully translated into Welsh with the assistance of Sian Northey. Additionally, one poem was originally written in Welsh and later translated into English by Ness herself. This bilingual approach adds an extra layer of depth and richness to the collection, allowing readers to appreciate the nuances and cultural significance of the language.

Ness Owen's debut collection is a testament to her poetic prowess and her unwavering commitment to her roots. Through her words, she invites us to explore the intricacies of human experience, to connect with the world around us, and to embrace the beauty of linguistic diversity. This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of poetry to transcend boundaries and ignite the imagination.

\n Weight: 66g\n
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 4 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781909208773\n \n