Other Worlds
- 112 pages
- 4 hours of reading
A collection of poems examining life from a quasi-science-fiction perspective.
Albert Goldbarth is an American poet celebrated for his prolific output, gregarious tone, and eclectic interests. His distinctive 'talky' style and unique literary approach make him an unmistakable voice in contemporary poetry. Goldbarth frequently explores unexpected connections between disparate subjects, encouraging readers to view the world with fresh curiosity. His work is a vibrant testament to the richness and wonder of human experience.






A collection of poems examining life from a quasi-science-fiction perspective.
Exploring a diverse range of voices, this poetry collection features characters from various backgrounds, including historical figures and everyday neighbors. The poems vary in length and tone, encompassing both humor and sorrow. Goldbarth's deep understanding of history and character allows him to weave in a rich tapestry of personalities, from presidents to mythmakers, while maintaining a thoughtful and engaging narrative voice throughout.
Exploring the interplay between vast cosmic themes and intimate human experiences, this poetry collection delves into love, dramatic encounters, and pivotal historical moments. The narrative culminates in a vivid poem about Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, who first glimpsed the submicroscopic world. With a mix of brief and longer pieces that are contemplative and humorous, Albert Goldbarth, a two-time National Book Critics Circle Award-winner, offers a dynamic exploration of perspective and proximity in our lives.
Goldbarth's poetry offers a unique perspective, blending everyday human experiences with a science fiction outlook. He examines mundane events through a multidimensional lens, reminiscent of Einstein's theories. This approach invites readers to explore the extraordinary in the ordinary, revealing deeper insights into human behavior and existence.
Now in paperback, the career-spanning retrospective by Albert Goldbarth, the only poet to have won the National Book Critics Circle Award in Poetry twice Now his, the only overhead turned on. Now nothing else existed: only him, and the book, and the light thrown over his shoulders as luxuriously as a cashmere shawl. —from "Shawl" Albert Goldbarth has created an unmistakable signature style—learned, copious, hilarious, and heartbreaking. The Kitchen Sink brings together forty new poems with a rich selection of earlier poetry, ranging from the brief, flickering lyric to the long, narrative sequence. This is the definitive book by one of America's most original and entertaining poets.
Renowned for his lyrical prowess, Albert Goldbarth captivates readers with his ability to evoke deep emotions. His work showcases a blend of intellect and artistry, reflecting on the complexities of life and human experience. Goldbarth's unique voice and masterful command of language invite readers to explore profound themes, making his poetry both accessible and thought-provoking. His writing resonates with a wide audience, leaving a lasting impact through its heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the intricacies of existence.
"In a book whose subjects range from the high gods of antiquity to the low blows of divorce-spite, and whose strategies move from a seven-line poem about birth to a twenty-page study of contemporary disjunction, Goldbarth expands triumphantly upon his earlier work. For all its lively variety, the book is not so much a collection of separate pieces as a poet's version of the cutting-edge physicist's grand attempt to unify the far-flung elements of our human condition." --From the back cover
Combining humor with a serious undertone, Albert Goldbarth's latest volume showcases his unique style, blending erudite research, pop-culture references, and personal anecdotes. This collection not only consolidates his previous themes but also expands upon them, further establishing his voice as a significant figure in contemporary American poetry. The work reflects his distinctive approach, making it a noteworthy addition to the literary landscape.
Exploring a diverse array of narratives, the book features a mix of lyrical poetry and complex storytelling that spans various themes and settings. It includes a humorous monologue in "Yinglish" and a poignant elegy set in a brewery, highlighting the emotional spectrum of love and conflict. From Martian invaders to polar explorers, the work captures the essence of human relationships and the impact of language, reflecting on how we often wield words as weapons in our connections with others.
Exploring a diverse range of forms, this volume features sonnet-sized meditations alongside extended narratives. It takes readers on myth-infused journeys through a "river-tangled pocket of Peru" while also delving into the author's well-known territory of pop cultural autobiography, showcasing Goldbarth's unique blend of personal reflection and imaginative storytelling.