After the Body: New & Selected Poems

by Cleopatra Mathis

From her first book, Aerial View of Louisiana, published in 1979, Cleopatra Mathis has given us poems that somehow manage to be elegant and visceral at once. What has changed in the progression of the six collections since then—in poetry addressing marriage, the mystery of animals, the delicate and indelible bonds of family, illness, and mortality—is that the visceral quotient has steadily increased, though the elegance remains undiminished. For Mathis, the natural world no longer provides the affirmation and solace it once did; the navigation of a darkened hallway at night is a perilous expedition. After the Body charts the depredations of an illness that seems intent on removing the body, piece by piece. Through close and relentless observation of her own physical being, Mathis shows us how miniscule ambition, planning, and a sense of control over our own bodies are—things we so blithely take as real and solid when healthy. Her many publications, awards, and praise from peers testify that she is a lyric poet of the highest order. This expansive new book reflects a brilliant career, and is a necessary addition to any collection.

Genres: Poetry

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2020

Reviews

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was between 3-4 stars for this. Some of tigers poems are really good. Some are mediocre. Yes, a lot are dark. The description of this collection describes it perfectly. Do not try to read in large quantities. Taking it a little at a time allows you to appreciate some of the imagery, symbolism, and eloquent word play (even if it’s dark).