This author explores the realities of urban and natural landscapes, using the stark economy of words learned from journalism to capture the essence of his hometown. Contrasting experiences in a synthetic environment prompted a profound reevaluation of his worldview, leading to more intense and politically aware writing. His work is characterized by urgency and a desire for authentic expression, eschewing literary revisionism for a direct connection with the reader.
Barry MacSweeney's last book, The Book of Demons, recorded his fierce fight against alcoholism as well as the great love of those who helped save his life - though only for three more years. Wolf Tongue is his own selection, with the addition of the two late books which many regard as his finest work, Pearl and The Book of Demons. schovat popis
The collection features over 300 pages of unselected poetry by MacSweeney, spanning from 1966 to 2000. It highlights his early work, including the acclaimed "The Boy From the Green Cabaret Tells of His Mother," and showcases eight complete sequences from the prolific 1970s, featuring major pieces like "Black Torch" and unpublished works such as "Toad Church." The poems range from lyrical emotion to modernist styles, with five previously unpublished pieces from the 1980s. The editor provides an introduction and notes, enhancing understanding of MacSweeney's contributions.