
Whirling is a new collection of poems by Chris Wallace-Crabbe, who is much-traveled, and read, and admired equally in America, Britain, and his home country, Australia. He was awarded the distinguished Melbourne Age Book of the Year Award in 1995. His versatile use of language, including vivid Australian slang, is energetic and attractive, sometimes almost distracting his readers from a deeper seriousness and sadness. Whirling offers readers a glimpse into the world of a profound, wide-ranging, and eloquent poet.
This collection of poems captures the intersection of global experience and local identity through a series of lyrical observations. The poet navigates the complexities of a life spent traveling between Australia, Britain, and America, utilizing a versatile linguistic register to ground abstract thoughts in physical reality. The narrative framework is episodic, presenting a collection of distinct voices and perspectives that reflect on the passage of time and the weight of human experience. The primary tension arises from the contrast between the energetic, colloquial surface of the language and the underlying currents of melancholy and philosophical inquiry.
Readers and critics often note the technical dexterity displayed throughout the collection, particularly the poet's ability to balance playfulness with profound existential weight. Discussion frequently centers on how the inclusion of Australian slang serves to anchor the work, providing a distinct cultural texture that contrasts with the poet's broader international concerns. Many observers highlight the accessibility of the language, which invites readers into complex thematic territory without sacrificing clarity. The collection is widely regarded as a significant contribution to contemporary verse, noted for its consistent tone and the depth of its intellectual engagement. Readers often find that the poems reward multiple readings, as the subtle shifts in mood become more apparent over time.
Page Count:
64
Publication Date:
1998-07-01
Publisher:
Carcanet Press Ltd.
ISBN-10:
0192880810
ISBN-13:
9780192880819
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