Poetry and Bondage: A History and Theory of Lyric Constraint

Poetry and Bondage is a groundbreaking study of the history of poetic constraint, tracing the metaphor from Ovid to the present and examining the contributions of enslaved and imprisoned poets. It interrogates the whiteness of lyric studies and literary criticism and explores the possibilities for committed poetry today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Poetry and Bondage is a groundbreaking and comprehensive exploration of the rich history of poetic constraint, delving into the enduring comparison between verse and bondage, encompassing chains, fetters, cells, and slavery. Spanning millennia, poets have employed this metaphor to convey the essence of their craft, drawing upon the power of words to transcend physical limitations. In her remarkable work, Andrea Brady traces the evolution of this metaphor from the ancient world of Ovid to the present, shedding light on the profound contributions made by individuals who have experienced bondage.

The central question posed by the book is how our understanding of the lyric, a vessel for expressing political freedoms and the essence of human existence, evolves when we engage with the voices of enslaved and imprisoned poets. By bringing together canonical and contemporary poets, from the likes of Thomas Wyatt, Rob Halpern, Emily Dickinson, M. NourbeSe Philip, and Phillis Wheatley to Lisa Robertson, the book fosters a dialogue that challenges the dominant narratives of lyric studies and literary criticism. It delves into the inherent whiteness of these disciplines and explores the potential for committed poetry to thrive in the present day.

Through its meticulous analysis and engaging prose, Poetry and Bondage emerges as a major intervention in lyric studies and literary criticism. It invites readers to reexamine the boundaries of poetic expression and challenge the status quo. By engaging with the experiences of those who have been marginalized and oppressed, the book offers a fresh perspective on the power of poetry to inspire, transform, and ignite change. As we navigate a world that continues to grapple with the legacies of slavery and oppression, Poetry and Bondage serves as a reminder of the enduring human capacity for resilience, creativity, and resistance. It is a testament to the enduring power of words to shape our understanding of the world and to inspire a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 812g
Dimension: 158 x 239 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108845724
Edition number: New ed