The House of the Interpreter

Lisa Kelly's second collection responds to the repression of British Sign Language (BSL) and explores the hidden others that enrich everyday life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Carcanet Press Ltd

A Poetry Book Society Summer Recommendation 2023

BBC Poetry Extra's Book of the Month for August 2023

This, Lisa Kelly's second collection, responds to the repression of British Sign Language (BSL) as its occasion and inspiration. Kelly develops the subject through extended sequences that attend to mushrooms and fungi, lifeforms that develop in secret, unnoticed, unappreciated, yet whose existence enriches everyday life. What can such hidden others teach us – if we attune all our senses?

Kelly's poetry explores the hidden world of fungi and mushrooms, drawing on their enigmatic and mysterious nature to explore themes of secrecy, appreciation, and the interconnectedness of all life. Through her vivid and sensory descriptions, she invites readers to attune all their senses and discover the richness and beauty of the natural world that surrounds us.

One of the standout poems in the collection is "Mushroom," which opens with the line "In the dark, damp earth, a secret grows." The poem goes on to describe the intricate and delicate nature of mushrooms, their ability to thrive in the most unlikely places, and their profound connection to the earth and its cycles.

Another powerful poem is "Fungus," which explores the relationship between humans and fungi. The poem begins with the line "We are born of the earth, we are made of the earth," and goes on to describe how fungi are essential to the health and well-being of the planet. Kelly uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey the sense of interconnectedness between all life forms, and how our actions can have a profound impact on the environment.

Throughout the collection, Kelly weaves together themes of secrecy, appreciation, and the interconnectedness of all life. Her poetry is rich with sensory detail and evocative language, making it a pleasure to read and reread. Whether you are a lover of poetry or simply someone who enjoys exploring the natural world, this collection is sure to inspire and delight.

In conclusion, Lisa Kelly's second collection, "Mushroom," is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of poetry to explore the hidden world and reveal the interconnectedness of all life. Through her vivid and sensory descriptions, Kelly invites readers to attune all their senses and discover the richness and beauty of the natural world that surrounds us. This collection is a testament to the power of poetry to inspire and transform, and to remind us of the importance of appreciating and protecting the world we live in.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 135 x 215 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800173125