Customer Reviews

Three Books: Body Rags; Mortal Acts, Mortal Words; The Past

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With all respect to "TTaylor" in the other review, "The Past" is hardly an earlier work, as Kinnell was near 60 when he wrote it. I am not sure these books belong together, but I believe "The Past" to be at least as good as Kinnell's most famous book, "The Book of Nightmares." I also think, like the latter, it's his most consistent book. And, in my opinion, it is a mature work. His work since has been mixed with occasional masterpieces, which is quite allowable for a poet (not every poem must be a masterpiece). Still, I enjoy the consistency of "The Past" over the 90's poems which so often seem to be following Sharon Olds' prosaic confessionalism too closely. In any case, do not limit yourself to "Nightmares" or "Selected Poetry." This book is one of the finest in late 20th century American poetry.

Galway Kinnell's poetry exudes the confidence of a master poet and his words drip with meaning. These are poems which you can sink your teeth into, reveling in their introspection and beauty. Kinnell is one of the most influential poets of this generation and continues to produce a substantial bulk of work. As a wannabe poet myself, I read the poetry in a very envious manner. The ability to produce images and meaning in the way Kinnell does, denotes a certain amount of power I hope to possess. The 3 books in question are earlier works which established Mr. Kinnell as a "well-known" poet. The compilation effectively showcases the breadth and depth of his power. You will not be disappointed with this work.