8 Can’t-Miss Poetry Releases for August
August is upon us, and with it comes a fresh wave of poetry collections that are bound to inspire, challenge, and captivate this month. Whether you’re a longtime poetry enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, these eight new releases offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to dive into these compelling reads.
Ever Since I Did Not Die by Ramy Al-Asheq, edited by Levi Thompson, translated by Isis Nusair
August, 2024 (paperback only)
Ramy Al-Asheq’s Ever Since I Did Not Die is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Edited by Levi Thompson and translated by Isis Nusair, this collection offers a vivid portrayal of the refugee experience, capturing the pain, hope, and strength of those who have been displaced. Al-Asheq’s poetry is both harrowing and uplifting. Ever Since I Did Not Die is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the refugee crisis on a deeper level.
Glass Hearts & Unspoken Goodbyes: Poems of Healing and Hope by Kayla McCullough
August 6, 2024
Kayla McCullough’s Glass Hearts & Unspoken Goodbyes is a poignant collection that addresses themes of healing, loss, and hope. McCullough’s heartfelt and relatable poetry speaks to the universal human experiences of love and grief, offering solace and inspiration. This collection is a comforting companion for anyone navigating the complexities of their emotions.
Go Figure by Rae Armantrout
August 6, 2024
Pulitzer Prize-winner Rae Armantrout’s latest collection, Go Figure, continues her exploration of the intersections between the mundane and the profound. Armantrout’s sharp, concise poems are known for their wit and philosophical depth, and Go Figure is no exception. This collection is a thought-provoking journey through the subtleties of modern life.
What Can the Matter Be? by Keith Taylor
August 6, 2024
Keith Taylor’s What Can the Matter Be? offers a contemplative and introspective look at nature, humanity, and the passage of time. Taylor’s elegant and evocative poetry invites readers to pause and reflect on the beauty and complexity of the world around us. This collection is perfect for those who appreciate the quieter, more meditative aspects of poetry.
Every Where Alien by Brad Walrond
August 13, 2024
Brad Walrond’s Every Where Alien explores themes of identity, displacement, and belonging with a striking intensity. Walrond’s verses navigate the intricacies of being a queer Black man in America, weaving personal narratives with broader social commentary. This collection is a must-read for those seeking powerful, reflective poetry that resonates on multiple levels.
Reconstruction of the Poet: Uncollected Works of Zbigniew Herbert, edited and translated by Alissa Valles
August 13, 2024
Reconstruction of the Poet brings together previously uncollected works of the renowned Polish poet Zbigniew Herbert. Edited and translated by Alissa Valles, this collection sheds new light on Herbert’s profound and enduring legacy. Herbert’s work, known for its philosophical depth and moral clarity, is as relevant today as ever. This collection is a treasure trove for fans of Herbert and a perfect introduction for new readers.
Bluff: Poems by Danez Smith
August 20, 2024
Danez Smith returns with Bluff, a vibrant and raw exploration of love, loss, and artistic resilience. Known for their powerful voice and unflinching honesty, Smith’s latest work delves into the intersections of race, gender, and queerness. Bluff promises to be a transformative journey through the complexities of the human experience.
Deed by Torrin A. Greathouse
August 20, 2024
In Deed, Torrin A. Greathouse tackles themes of disability, gender, and survival with a fierce and lyrical touch. Greathouse’s poems are a testament to the power of language in reclaiming narratives and asserting identity. This collection is both a celebration of resilience and a call to action, making it an essential read for our times.
This August, immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of poetry with these eight remarkable collections. Whether you’re seeking introspection, inspiration, or a deeper understanding of the human condition, there’s something here for you. Happy reading!
