Ovarium

Ovarium is a collection of poems by Ingham that explores the journey of a giant ovarian cyst, from diagnosis to surgery to recovery. The poems examine the impact of illness on the body and the relationship between the patient and their body, challenging the patriarchal language of anatomy and medicine.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 36 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: The Emma Press

Ovarium, a pamphlet of poems, delves into the realm of a giant ovarian cyst, offering a tender, loving, and visceral exploration. The poet embarks on a journey alongside this cyst, navigating from diagnosis to surgery to recovery, all within the confines of scanner rooms and hospital wards. Through her poetic lens, she delves into the profound impact of illness, unearthing the body as a source of both disgust and shame, as well as a site of healing and endurance. Ingham's poems exhibit a forensic precision as she examines the disorienting and often patriarchal language of anatomy and medicine, shedding light on how illness can alter our relationship with our own bodies.

In one poignant poem, the poet attempts to envision the cyst as a fruit, growing against the warm wall of her gut. The cyst, with its melon-headed form, gently nudges its way through the leafy organs, carving out a place for itself within the intricate plot of the body. However, the poet's perception of the cyst is initially rooted in earthiness, as she describes herself as merely bloody earth, a coldframe full of light.

Through these poems, Ovarium invites readers to contemplate the complexities of illness, body image, and the profound ways in which our experiences can shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Ingham's poetic voice is a testament to the resilience and strength found in the face of adversity, offering a poignant and powerful exploration of the human condition.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912915972