"In 'Artwork on the Backs of Gargoyles, ' Lyn Coffin, poet, novelist and translator, proves herself a master of the poetic forms, the villanelle, the sestina, and the paradelle, in which she casts both an empathic and a sardonic eye on the internal lives of damaged, cruel, tender, passionate, dispassionate, and above all, haunting men, women and children." -Joanne Ward
A young woman is drugged and raped on New Year's Eve 1999. Her history of childhood abuse ensure her inability to remember what happened. When she has sex with her boy friend on Valentine's Day, and later discovers she is pregnant, she thinks that the child is her boy friend's and has fantasies of waltzing off into the sunset with him. When the doctor she eventually consults informs her of the approximate date of conception, and she realizes the truth, she enlists the help of a retired police officer to track down her assailant.... This is about how one heals from trauma, about a woman learning to be brave, learning to love in ways she never considered.
Featuring a rich compilation of Lyn Coffin's poetry, this collection brings together selections from her previous works alongside new, unpublished pieces. It showcases a diverse range of themes and styles, including the notable addition of "Rodin's Girl Friend." The volume encapsulates Coffin's evolution as a poet, drawing from titles like Human Trappings and A Marriage Without Consummation, making it a significant contribution to contemporary poetry.
The story revolves around Henry and his imaginary friend, Punkin, an orangutan who brings joy and whimsy to his life. When Henry's wish for Punkin to become real is granted, he quickly discovers the challenges that come with having a tangible, lively companion. The narrative explores themes of imagination versus reality, friendship, and the complexities that arise when dreams come true. As Henry navigates this new dynamic, he learns valuable lessons about the nature of friendship and responsibility.