American Smooth

Rita Dove's new poetry collection celebrates cultural heritage through vivid imagery and emotional depth. Her poems traverse diverse themes, from the beauty of operatic voices to the poignant echoes of jazz during World War I. With a graceful touch, Dove captures the complexities of perception and experience, drawing connections between personal and collective histories. The collection's title poem reflects the elegance of ballroom dancing, emphasizing the art of making challenging subjects feel effortless.