The Inheritance

by William Ayot

We all have an inheritance, and many of us struggle to speak our truth. Some never get to say a word, still less receive a hearing. This book charts one journey from silence to self-expression - sometimes just speaking is a victory.

128 pages, Paperback

First published July 30, 2011

Reviews

[Judith Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard William Ayot reading a selection of his poems at a poetry reading in Abergavenny a little while back, and was transfixed, bowled over by the power of not only the words but also his communication of his work - exceptionally clear, resonant, and for me anyway, going straight to the heart. I have rarely been so blown away at poetry readings! I bought this book then, and have not been disappointed. I will be (and already have been) recommending William Ayot to many people.

I quote from his afterword:

“These poems were not originally written with a collection in mind. Over a period of nearly twenty years they have spoken to live audiences: affirming, comforting and occasionally enlightening people about their own struggles and obsessions. They were written to be spoken, often with specific groups and gatherings in mind. As such they were put to work - in the room - and so served their purpose.”

I will definitely want to read all of this poet’s work, and hope I’ll get the chance to hear him again some time.