The Lamb Cycle - What the Great English Poets Would Have Written About Mary and Her Lamb (Had They Thought of It First)

In The Lamb Cycle, David R. Ewbank writes in the style of great English poets, capturing their preoccupations and subject matter, such as D.H. Lawrence's Mary longing for her lamb and T.S. Eliot's Mary being recollected by an old man. The poems are enhanced by Kate Feiffers illustrations and are brilliantly written, sophisticated, and laugh-out-loud funny.

Format: Hardback
Length: 60 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2023
Publisher: Brandeis University Press

In his remarkable work, The Lamb Cycle, David R. Ewbank takes on an audacious task: to recreate the essence and style of renowned English poets from Edmund Spenser to Stevie Smith. Through his skillful writing, Ewbank manages to convey a level of authenticity that is truly astonishing, making it nearly impossible to believe that Shakespeare himself was not inspired by the subject of "Mary Had a Little Lamb."

Ewbank's mastery extends beyond simply imitating the style of each poet; he also delves into their unique preoccupations and the themes they explored in their works. For instance, D.H. Lawrence's Mary yearns for her lamb with the same intensity as any woman yearning for her lover, while T.S. Eliot's Mary is remembered by an old man reflecting on his life. Alexander Pope even contributes an "Essay on Lambs," and Tennyson's lotus eaters transform into "The Clover Eater."

What sets Ewbank's poems apart is their brilliance, sophistication, and sheer comedic brilliance. They are written with a keen wit and a deep understanding of the English poetic tradition, resulting in a reading experience that is both enchanting and hilarious. Kate Feiffer's charming illustrations further enhance the appeal of the collection, adding a visual layer to the already captivating poems.

Whether you are a seasoned poetry enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of English literature, The Lamb Cycle is a must-read. It will captivate anyone who has ever savored the beauty and complexity of an English poem, and leave you eagerly anticipating Ewbank's future literary endeavors.

Dimension: 7 x 5 x 1 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781684581450