Plainwater: Essays and Poetry

The extraordinary imagination of Anne Carson, a writer described by Michael Ondaatje as "the most exciting poet writing in English today," is on full display in the poetry and prose collected in Plainwater. These pieces, which are succinct and astonishingly beautiful, stretch the boundaries of language and literary form, while juxtaposing classical and modern traditions.

Carson's creative vision manifests in diverse ways throughout the collection. She envisions a present-day interview with a seventh-century BC poet, offering miniature lectures on topics as varied as orchids and Ovid. In another striking juxtaposition, Carson imagines the muse of a fifteenth-century painter attending a phenomenology conference in Italy.

The writings in Plainwater also showcase Carson's talent for constructing verbal photographs of a series of mysterious towns, and taking the reader on a pilgrimage in pursuit of the elusive and intimate anthropology of water. Blending the rhythm and vivid metaphor of poetry with the discursive nature of the essay, these works dazzle us with their invention and enlighten us with their erudition.

Through this eclectic collection, Carson demonstrates her extraordinary command of language and her ability to push the boundaries of literary form. Whether she is reimagining the creative process of a ancient poet or exploring the philosophical dimensions of water, her writings captivate the reader with their unique vision and intellectual depth. Plainwater stands as a testament to the breadth and complexity of Carson's artistry, cementing her reputation as one of the most innovative and influential writers of our time.

product information: