Noise of a Fly

Douglas Dunn's The Noise of a Fly is a collection of poems shortlisted for the T. S. Eliot Prize for Poetry. It is filled with warmth, mischief, and a self-deprecating humor, as well as a charming, Larkinesque crankiness. The book looks outward at Scottish independence, British politics, and the international refugee crisis, and reflects on what it is to consider oneself a contributor to society. Dunn's combination of imaginative ambition, formal resource, and range of tone makes him one of the most respected Scottish poets of his generation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Douglas Dunn's The Noise of a Fly is a remarkable collection of poetry that marks his return to the literary scene after a sixteen-year hiatus. This first collection since his prestigious Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry award in 2013 showcases Dunn's exceptional talent and wit. The book brims with warmth, mischief, and a self-deprecating humor that is both charming and relatable. It explores themes of aging, impatience with youth, the loss of friends and colleagues, and the complexities of societal contributions.

While the poems delve into the intimate realm of hearthside rumination, they also extend their gaze outward, taking in Scottish independence, British politics, and the global refugee crisis. Dunn's reflections on these pressing issues are thought-provoking and deeply introspective. With a dexterous wit and a steady nerve, Dunn crafts a mesmerizing imagining of our later years, offering a profound perspective on the human condition.

Douglas Dunn's poetry stands out for its remarkable combination of imaginative ambition, formal resource, and a wide range of tone. His ability to seamlessly navigate between humor, introspection, and social commentary is a testament to his artistic versatility. His work is characterized by a profound sense of urgency, as he explores the complexities of human existence and the role of poetry in capturing the essence of our experiences.

The Noise of a Fly has received widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike. Sean O'Brien, one of the most respected Scottish poets of his generation, praises Dunn's "combination of imaginative ambition, formal resource, and range of tone," describing his poetry as "a matter of permanent urgency." Nicholas Wroe, another prominent critic, hails Dunn as "the most respected Scottish poet of his generation."

In conclusion, Douglas Dunn's The Noise of a Fly is a remarkable collection of poetry that showcases his exceptional talent and wit. With its warmth, mischief, and introspection, the book offers a captivating glimpse into the human experience. Dunn's combination of imaginative ambition, formal resource, and range of tone sets him apart as one of the most respected poets of his generation. This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of poetry to capture the essence of life and engage with the world around us.

Weight: 118g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 4 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571333820
Edition number: Main