Cynthia Huntington Libri

Set against the backdrop of Provincetown's beach and dunes, the poems delve into themes of place, time, and memory. Cynthia Huntington expresses a profound love for her surroundings, capturing both the ecstasy of nature and the intricacies of her inner world. Through her verses, she reflects on the deepening connection to a familiar landscape, revealing insights into the relationship between the external environment and personal experience.

Exploring the interplay of beauty and tragedy, the narrative delves into profound themes of memory and loss. Through evocative imagery, it contemplates the emotional weight of mourning and the ephemeral nature of life. The presence of the marsh hawk serves as a poignant symbol, reflecting the delicate balance between sorrow and the beauty found within it. Huntington's work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of grief and the transformative power of remembrance.

The collection of lyric poems explores the complexities of the sexual revolution and the tumult of the 1960s, blending personal and societal narratives. Through vivid imagery and sensory details, Huntington captures the allure and peril of addiction, alongside the era's iconic figures. Central to the work is the character Suzy Creamcheese, who embodies both empowerment and vulnerability in her sexuality. The poems resonate with themes of rebellion, change, and the duality of human experience, offering an intimate and raw reflection on life's emotional and physical journeys.

Exploring the themes of exile and migration, this book-length poem delves into the complexities of losing, seeking, and redefining home. Through a polyphonic structure, multiple voices weave together a rich tapestry of experiences, reflecting the emotional landscape of displacement and belonging. National Book Award finalist Cynthia Huntington's ambitious work invites readers to contemplate the myriad meanings of home in a world marked by movement and change.

Civil twilight is the astronomical term for the minutes just before sunrise and just after sunset. If one took a snapshot, it would be impossible to tell whether the light was increasing or diminishing. The poems in Civil Twilight arise in this liminal space.