To Test the Joy: Selected Poetry and Prose

Genevieve Taggard is a renowned 20th-century American poet whose first comprehensive collection of her work, To Test the Joy, is now available. This collection includes her poetry, fiction, memoirs, and criticism, showcasing her remarkable life and career. Taggard's poetry is powerful and precise, reflecting her exploration of deep meanings and her commitment to social and political issues. The book is accompanied by critical commentary by Anne Hammond, providing insight into Taggard's life and work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2023
Publisher: UEA Publishing Project

Genevieve Taggard is widely regarded as one of the most exceptional American poets of the 20th century. Her remarkable literary contributions have been featured in every major anthology of American poetry, showcasing her immense talent and influence. However, until now, this is the very first comprehensive collection of her work to grace the literary landscape.

In her remarkable collection titled "To Test the Joy," Genevieve Taggard presents a treasure trove of her poetry, fiction, memoirs, and critical writings, offering a comprehensive and captivating glimpse into her extraordinary life and illustrious career. Taggard's journey as a woman, a citizen, and an artist was marked by a relentless pursuit of self-discovery and a deep commitment to exploring the profound meanings within herself, her times, and the world around her. The result is a body of poetry that exudes exceptional power and precision, hailed as a testament to her fine discipline and a remarkable blending of artistic elements.

Genevieve Taggard's life and work encompassed a wide range of historical issues and experiences that resonated deeply with the core of 20th-century history. From the oppressive forces of colonialism to the struggle for women's rights, from the laborious battles against capitalism to the devastating impact of industrialization on nature, her writings addressed the pressing concerns and challenges of her era. These issues and experiences, although rooted in the past, continue to hold profound relevance in our contemporary world.

To Test the Joy skillfully weaves Taggard's poetry and prose with insightful critical commentary by Anne Hammond, providing a comprehensive and engaging journey through the artist's life. From her early days in Hawaii to the vibrant Bohemian scene of 1920s New York City, from the tumultuous strikes and protests of the 1930s to her return to the serene embrace of her Vermont farm in the 1940s, the reader is taken on a captivating voyage through Taggard's rich tapestry of experiences.

This collection not only showcases Taggard's literary prowess but also sheds light on her unwavering commitment to social justice and her role as a voice for the marginalized. Through her words, she challenged the status quo. quo, advocated for equality, and inspired generations to embrace their individuality and strive for a better world. "To Test the Joy" is a testament to Genevieve Taggard's enduring legacy as a poet, writer, and cultural icon, and it serves as a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of 20th-century American literature.

Dimension: 192 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915812025