The Anchor's Long Chain

Yves Bonnefoy's The Anchor's Long Chain is an experiment with the sonnet form, combining the strictness of the form with the freedom to vary line length and create evocative fragments. It is an indispensable addition to his oeuvre, enriched by an unprecedented sequence of nineteen sonnets and longer, discursive pieces. The poems are autobiographical, conjuring up eternal questions, and are written in poetic prose.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

Yves Bonnefoy, a prominent French poet of his generation, has embarked on an intriguing experiment with the sonnet form in his latest work, "The Anchor's Long Chain." Originally published in France in 2008, this indispensable addition to Bonnefoy's oeuvre has captivated the literary world for decades. Enriched by the translation by Beverley Bie Brahic, the volume not only expands upon Bonnefoy's earlier work but also introduces an unprecedented sequence of nineteen sonnets. These sonnets seamlessly blend the strict structure of the form with the freedom to vary line length, resulting in evocative fragments that evoke a range of emotions. With their compressed yet emotionally powerful nature, the poems also delve into the autobiographical realm, offering glimpses into the poet's life. Throughout the collection, Bonnefoy raises profound questions about the essence of life with each new poem.

In addition to the sonnets, "The Anchor's Long Chain" includes longer, discursive pieces such as the title poem, which meditates on a prehistoric stone circle, and a legend about a ship. These pieces showcase Bonnefoy's exceptional talent for poetic prose, reminiscent of his esteemed French predecessors. For long-time fans of Bonnefoy's work, this volume offers abundant praise, while newer readers will quickly fall under the spell of his powerful and discursive poetry.

Weight: 142g
Dimension: 127 x 202 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803092935