The Opposite of Seduction
New Poetry in German
This anthology is the first significant collection of contemporary German-language poetry in English in over 40 years. As Nicola Thomas notes in her Introduction, English-speaking readers have limited access to this vibrant body of work. The anthology aims to bridge this gap by presenting a selection of recent poems translated from German, showcasing the vitality of the German-language lyric over the past two decades. The hope is that these poems will resonate with a wide audience, revealing connections in form, style, and theme while offering a glimpse into the richness of contemporary German poetry in the early twenty-first century. The selection of poets is influenced by the pivotal contributions of three key figures: Elke Erb, Friedrike Mayroecker, and Thomas Kling, who have shaped the current landscape of German writing. Featured poets include Yevgeniy Breyger, Sonja vom Brocke, Carolin Callies, and many others, while the translations are crafted by a talented group of translators, ensuring that the essence of the original works is preserved for English readers. This anthology serves as a vital resource for those looking to explore the dynamic world of contemporary German poetry.
