I agree with Doug's comments. There will always be those whose comments
send us into a spin, both downwards and up. That's the way it is.
This list couldn't function otherwise. Imagine a discussion list
stacked with like-minded people?
Recently I've been reading through Douglas' _Selected Poems_
and there is a fine generous spirit at work in many of them.
I particularly like "Troubador" with its dreamscapes, haunted characters,
and its B. Dylan ending. Also, "Durham" for its captivating
dark formal tone, echoing Geoffrey Hill. This is early work,
and I'm looking forward to reading widely from what he's written.
Douglas cares enough about all kinds of poetry (and music) to engage
in an unfiltered, passionate way. I've enjoyed many of Peter Riley's
posts
(though I've disagreed with him on ocassion) because he involves himself
completely without sniping from the towers of academe. When I first
mentioned Don Paterson's "Nil Nil", Douglas' response put a hairline
crack in my computer screen. But, as Doug says, he went looking
for the book, to reread sections in the light of my post. He came back
waving the book and yelling "Rubbish", but he took the time to go deep
into the work. This kind of serious involvement is wonderful
and great for poetry.
Anthony
**************************************
Anthony Lawrence
Po Box 75
Sandy Bay
Tasmania 7006
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
|