Synthetic Jungle: Poems

Synthetic Jungle is a new poetry collection by Michael Chang that combines humor and criticism to rebuild the language we use to communicate our fears and joys. It explores themes of identity, sexuality, and literacy through a dizzying rhythm of microtheaters, making readers giggle, snort, and guffaw while recognizing their mistakes and growing from them. The collection is fractal and kinetic, reminiscent of John Ashbery and Emily Dickinson, with a sarcastic grin that reverberates with an immense, open heart.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

A fresh poetry collection from the acclaimed author Michael Chang, Synthetic Jungle, is a vital breath of life that has made its mark on American poetry. With a register that ranges from hilarious to scathing, Chang's latest collection effortlessly challenges conventions while simultaneously reimagining the language we use to express our fears and joys.

Synthetic Jungle is a collection penned by a witty jester who playfully winks at the reader as they catch every reference before sharing a laugh at their own self-satisfaction. The themes of identity, sexuality, and literacy unfold in a dizzying rhythm of microtheaters, creating a captivating experience for readers. Whether it's a repudiation of the literary landscape or a critique of a failing justice system, Chang's work invites readers to laugh along with him, recognizing their mistakes and ultimately growing from them.

In the spirit of John Ashbery and Emily Dickinson, Chang's poems dance around, between, and through the personal and philosophical. With a tone that is both fractal and kinetic, his tender poems resonate with an immense, open heart. Synthetic Jungle is a masterpiece that is as sweet as it is grand, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who encounters it.

Weight: 142g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810146211