Traveler in Paradise: New and Selected Poems

by Donna Hilbert

In addition to over a dozen new, previously uncollected poems, Traveler in New and Selected Poems, brings together for the first time the best of Donna Hilbert's four previous books, including her powerful debut collection, the long-out-of-print Mansions. Hilbert's readers, as well as those new to her work, will now be able to experience the full range of her poetry and her remarkable, often heart-breaking odyssey through life, from childhood to maturity.

Genres: Poetry

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Danielle Palmer]

A thin book of poetry, often sad or down trodden. She can be spicy.

[Jennifer Collins]

Hilbert's poems have a simple grace that makes them both approachable and striking. While some few felt more like broken up prose than I would have preferred, most felt like poems that made every breath, syllable, and space matter in a sort of effortless show of beauty and thought. I will say that the ending section of the book, made up of new poems rather than poems taken from previously published collections, was by far the weakest--short as it was, it rather brought down the whole of the reading experience for me, I have to admit. Still, I'm looking forward to reading more of Hilbert's work and picking up some of the collections that were sampled from here.

[Joan Colby]

. Personal poems that are moving and surprisingly original with many unforgettable insights. A selection from five previous books as well as new poems, these show the progression of the poet through life stages and development as a person and a writer.

[Barb]

I am not a writer. I don’t pretend to be a writer. I admire writers. Donna Hilbert is a writer I admire. Donna’s poetry can evoke a feeling from me that I wished I lived long ago in the era she describes. She is meticulous with her word choice and paints a passionate, compelling story in each poem she pens. Her poems may start out with a humorous tone and then surprise you by taking you down a dramatic path you were not expecting. This emotional complexity naturally leads the reader toward reflection and analysis of each poem. She wants her readers think and contemplate life as much as she does. Donna’s poems should be savored and read deeply and the reader will enjoy the immersion. I think a mark of a great writer is one that makes you reflect and empathize. With her poetry, Donna Hilbert provides a deep, rich, and enlightening reading experience.

[Clifton]

Subtle, insightful, and profound poems about love, loss, childhood, adult maturity, beauty, and endurance. Versatile in form, these superbly crafted poems take the reader on a journey of pain and pleasure, longing and fulfillment.