The Wickedest

Caleb Femi's The Wickedest is a landmark poetry collection that explores the institution of shoobs or house parties and their vital role within working-class communities. The poems range from classical English sonnets to experimental forms and are immersively interwoven with photographs, text messages, and ephemera. The collection playfully dissembles parties in space, sound, law, and bureaucracy to document the precarious existence of our nightlife venues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Caleb Femi's latest poetry collection, "The Wickedest," is a vibrant and life-affirming exploration of the institution of shoobs, or house parties, and their significance within working-class communities. The poems, which range from classical English sonnets to experimental forms, are intricately woven with photographs, text messages, and ephemera, creating a multi-dimensional experience that immerses readers in the world of nightlife. The collection playfully dismantles parties, examining their spatial, sonic, legal, and bureaucratic aspects, highlighting the precariousness of our nightlife venues. The book builds to a euphoric and grief-soaked crescendo, urging readers to embrace the moments of joy and freedom found on the dancefloor. "The Wickedest" has received critical acclaim, with SALMA EL-WARDANY of BBC Radio London describing it as "one of London's most renowned poets." NICK GRIMSHAW of BBC Radio 6 praised the collection, calling it "a near-holy experience." JONATHAN ESCOFFERY of The Guardian hailed it as "poetry that moves and is felt in the body." Caleb Femi's previous collection, "Poor," won the Forward Prize's Felix Dennis Prize for Best First Collection in 2021, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the poetry world.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 205 x 138 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008688240