Promises of Gold

More about the book

LONGLISTED FOR THE 2023 NATIONAL BOOK AWARD and named one of NPR's Books We Love, this groundbreaking collection of poems by José Olivarez delves into the many facets of love—self, brotherly, romantic, familial, and cultural. It raises the question of how many bad lovers and crushes have inspired poetry, while emphasizing the importance of friendships—those companions who support us and remind us of love's abundance. Through an exploration of the complexities of the American Dream, Olivarez reveals how “love is complicated by forces larger than our hearts.” The collection resonates deeply with readers, whether they engage with it in English or through the Spanish translation by David Ruano González. These extraordinary poems are destined to become cherished for their profound insights into life and love, illuminating the connections we share and the challenges we face.