Posthuman by Risa Denenberg

[Ellen]

Risa Denenberg’s new chapbook, “Posthuman,” (Floating Bridge Press) is, as you might expect from the title, about end times and extinction, but it is neither grim nor preachy. It is a very satisfying read, full of fresh metaphors and interesting language.
The brief book consists of eighteen sonnets (loosely defined) in sets of three. At the beginning of each set, a page is devoted to an opening phrase from each poem and, in type so faint I missed it the first time through, a phrase from the end. Within each threesome, the end of one poem and the beginning of the next are connected. For example, one poem ends “The last time I kissed/a woman, she had a stroke the very next day.” The next poem begins:

On our last day the earth will suffer a stroke.
Call it the big one, sixth extinction, apoplexy.
Call it nothing since nothing will be chronicled
on YouTube, on widescreen, in text—only in
sediment. No sentient or sentimental send off.


Another poem begins:

Death will hijack all the local trains, then
round up the laggards on the platforms.

Later in this poem the reader comes to: “In the end it all/ends—nation states, Starbucks, galaxies/the whole shebang.” I enjoy the way the poet mixes things up: death and trains, Starbucks and galaxies.

In the final poem she brings in Greta Thornberg. The final “Everything needs to change.” shows us it’s not over yet.

[Sarah]

Interesting structure and definitely an important topic. I like how you describe the page at the start of each set -- it's great when poetry books play with layout and type.
Sounds worthwhile, and glad it ends with a little hope.
thanks for reviewing

[Nina]

I love Risa Denenberg's work and missed this book! Thank you so much

[Ellen]

It's brand new, and not listed on Goodreads yet. I'm trying to figure out if I can add it.