Transcript of the Disappearance, Exact and Diminishing: Poems

Lynn Emanuels' sixth collection of poetry, Transcript of the Disappearance, is a poetic autobiography that explores the possibilities and limitations of art in the face of personal disappearances. It is a commotion of grief and wit, audacious images, poems, and paragraphs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press

Lynn Emanuels sixth collection of poetry, A Poetic Autobiography, defies conventional sequencing and storytelling. It lacks a traditional chronology and a central narrative. Instead, it presents a life story, encompassing its inherent chaos and messiness. Transcript of the Disappearance, Exact and Diminishing is a vibrant tapestry of grief and humor, featuring audacious images, poems, and paragraphs. It delves into the exploration and contemplation of the possibilities and constraints of art in the face of various disappearances, including the most personal one—the poet's own.

The book opens with a powerful poem titled "Transcript of the Disappearance," which sets the tone for the entire collection. In this poem, Emanuels reflects on the loss of a loved one and the fragmented memories that remain. The poem employs vivid imagery and metaphorical language to convey the depth of emotion and the complexities of grief.

The subsequent poems in the collection explore different aspects of disappearance. "Exact and Diminishing" examines the idea of disappearance as a process of erosion and loss, where things gradually fade away or become less significant. The poem explores the idea of disappearance as a means of transformation and rebirth, where something new can emerge from the ashes of the old.

"The Disappearing Act" explores the nature of disappearance as a performance, where individuals disappear or vanish intentionally or unintentionally. The poem examines the ways in which disappearance can be used as a tool for self-preservation or as a means of escape from difficult circumstances.

"The Language of Disappearance" explores the linguistic aspects of disappearance, focusing on the ways in which language can fail to capture the full extent of loss and the complexities of grief. The poem examines the ways in which language can be used to create a sense of connection and understanding in the face of disappearance.

Throughout the collection, Emanuels employs a rich and evocative language that captures the essence of disappearance. The poems are filled with vivid imagery, metaphorical language, and sensory details, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the emotional and psychological landscape of the collection.

In conclusion, A Poetic Autobiography, Exact and Diminishing is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of disappearance. Lynn Emanuels' poetic language and vivid imagery transport readers to the heart of grief and loss, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of this universal experience. The collection is a testament to the power of poetry to capture the essence of human experience and to provide solace and understanding in times of uncertainty and loss.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780822967187