You Have No Normal Country To Return To

Tom Sastry's second poetry collection, "You Have No Normal Country to Return To," explores questions of national identity and the end of history. It is a book about illusion and discovering that what was once taken for granted was never really there, a guidebook for an age of "enchantments collapsing on themselves."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Nine Arches Press

Tom Sastry delves into profound inquiries about national identity and the notion of "the end of history" in his captivating second poetry collection. Following his Seamus Heaney First Collection Prize shortlisting, A Man's House Catches Fire, this blistering, bleakly funny, and timely masterpiece showcases Sastry's exceptional poetic prowess.

Through a seamless blend of sharp satire and introspective questioning, You have no normal country to return to explores the intricate legacies of Empire, postwar migration, and the ongoing crisis in English identity. Sastry's precise and exquisitely attuned poetry probes the profound impact of the times we inhabit and the narratives we construct about them on our emotional landscapes. He delves into the ways in which national myths and personal stories intertwine to shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

This remarkable book is a testament to the power of illusion and the constant realization that what once seemed unquestionable was, in fact, never fully present. It serves as a guidebook for an era characterized by the collapse of enchantments, where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, and where we are compelled to confront the complexities of our existence.

With each poem, Sastry invites us to explore the depths of human experience, challenging our assumptions and illuminating the profound connections between individuals, cultures, and the larger tapestry of history. His words dance with wit, wisdom, and a keen awareness of the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on the reader's soul.

In conclusion, Tom Sastry's You have no normal country to return to is a poetic masterpiece that demands attention and contemplation. Through its exploration of national identity, the end of history, and the complexities of human existence, this collection offers a profound and thought-provoking journey into the heart of the human experience. Prepare to be captivated by Sastry's exceptional talent and be left with a lasting impression of his profound insights.

Weight: 126g
Dimension: 141 x 216 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913437343