Our planet is warming. And we are approaching a point at which this process is likely to accelerate rapidly with little prospect of hauling it back, with dire consequences for all of us. This tipping point will be felt strongly in the arctic, where the traditional ways of life of the Innuit and the ecosystem itself are becoming more fragile year on year. These poems explore this ecosystem now, look into the past, and explore what the future seems likely to hold. Each one evokes the ice and the bleakness, the life and the dwindling. The language is languid, but the message is urgent. And if it does not end on a note of hope, it is because we have much to do to avert disaster.
Yet this is a work of beauty, each poem both powerful and fragile, something to savour. The physical book is a creature of beauty itself, especially the cover illustration by James Roberts. Certainly a five-star publication.
A beautiful and thought-provoking review. The poems seem to capture not only the fragile beauty of the Arctic but also the urgency of protecting it before it is too late. A powerful reminder that nature’s poetry deserves both our admiration and our action.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Absolutely that, yes. Thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for this, Mick. Looks like a book I’ll be adding to my ever-expanding TBR list!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well worth reading, Stuart!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your line about the language being languid while the message is urgent is perfect, Mick. There’s something about poetry that asks us to slow down and notice what we’re in danger of losing. Thank you for introducing this collection.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome, Randall. I can’t recommend it strongly enough!
LikeLike