Carol Rumens Libri

Set against the backdrop of post-ceasefire Northern Ireland, the poems explore themes of war and reconciliation, reflecting on the complexities of life in Belfast. Carol Rumens draws on her experiences to weave together English themes, Celtic mythology, and translations of Cold War-era Russian poetry, revealing their relevance today. The collection juxtaposes opposites such as childhood and motherhood, intimacy and solitude, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and insight, with the figure of Janus symbolizing the duality of her experiences.

A new collection by the poet Carol Rumens is an eagerly-awaited event. 'Animal People', is inspired by what the author describes as 'the seasons of a sometimes Welsh and sometimes English year'. A lecturer at Bangor University, Rumens can dazzle with her descriptions of the Welsh countryside while also poking gentle fun at her status as 'incomer'.

Informed by a consciousness that is as fiercely personal and tender as it is public-minded and political, this compelling collection presents a wide range of poetry, from a sonnet, a sestina, and a villanelle, to a pantoum, a ghazal, or a fluid free verse poem. Divided into two parts, the book's first part contains a series of muse poems that are inspired by lines or images from the Italian poet, Eugenio Montale, and also influenced by the Hull-based poet, Philip Larkin. The central themes of these poems—longing, inspiration, unrequited desire, aging, change—are beautifully surmised in this important sequence. The second section varies between quick family portraits, pointed observations and musings on landscapes and seasons, several sharp political pieces, and poems that seek to unsettle prejudices and thwart conventional expectations.

A wide ranging anthology of work by contemporary poets from different backgrounds, with accompanying prose commentaries, drawn from the Guardian 'Poem of the Week' blog.

Exploring the complexities of thought and identity, the narrative features Carol Rumens as an imaginative figure who embodies a diverse community of voices, including various nationalities and creatures. The poetry is characterized by its rich, vibrant imagery and a blend of humor and philosophical depth. Rumens' work transcends European boundaries, showcasing her skill in weaving together multiple perspectives with clarity and bravado, creating a tapestry of human experience that is both playful and profound.

Collection of poems and verse-drama. Title of verse-drama: De Chirico's threads.