New Selected Poems
1984-2004
By: Carol Ann Duffy
This volume contains poems chosen by Carol Ann Duffy from her first six acclaimed collections, from 'Standing Female Nude' to 'Feminine Gospels', and a handful of other poems collected here for the first time.
AI Overview
Overview of "New Selected Poems" by Carol Ann Duffy
Title and Publication Details: The book "New Selected Poems: 1984-2004" by Carol Ann Duffy is a compilation of her best works from the past twenty years, spanning her first six acclaimed collections from "Standing Female Nude" (1985) to "Feminine Gospels" (2002) .
Synopsis: The collection is a curated selection of poems that showcase Duffy's diverse and inventive style. It includes poems that explore various themes such as love, identity, and the human experience. The poems are arranged in chronological order, allowing readers to trace the evolution of Duffy's poetic voice over two decades .
Key Themes:
- Love: Duffy explores different forms of love, including love for a place ("Homesick") and love for a person from afar ("Telephoning Home") .
- Identity: Poems like "Foreign" discuss the experience of being in a new country, where one thinks in their own language but speaks in another's .
- Human Experience: The collection also delves into universal themes such as longing, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships.
Critical Reception:
- Rose Tremain's Praise: Carol Ann Duffy is described as "the most humane and accessible poet of our time" by Rose Tremain, highlighting her ability to connect with readers through her poetry .
- Mixed Reviews: Some critics note that while many poems are powerful and memorable, others may not fully live up to their potential, often suffering from abruptness .
- Academic and Student Appeal: The collection is considered essential for students and a perfect introduction for new readers, offering a comprehensive understanding of Duffy's poetic range .
Additional Information:
- Publication Date: The book was published on August 19, 2011, by Picador .
- Page Count: The volume contains 288 pages .
Overall, "New Selected Poems: 1984-2004" by Carol Ann Duffy is a significant collection that showcases her versatility and depth as a poet, offering readers a rich and varied exploration of the human experience.