The beat and language of reggae arose from the Jamaican countryside and the sidewalks of Kingston, but they're basic for the poets represented in Wheel and Come Again. This remains true even though the poets' personal worlds range from the street to the university and from the tropics to Toronto, New York, and London. Wheel and Come Again features works by 28 poets of Caribbean origin; some remain in the islands, and others have migrated to North America and Britain. The book includes works by Canadian poets such as Rachel Manley, Afua Cooper, Lillian Allen, Olive Senior, and Clifton Joseph; UK poets including Linton Kwesi Johnson and Jean "Binta" Breeze; US writers Rohan B. Preston, Fred d'Aguiar, and others; and Island poets such as Anthony MacNeill and Lorna Goodison.

James Ransom presents readers with poems covering an astonishing diversity of subjects. There are iconic echoes in some of them-Auden, Eliot and Shakespeare, as well as John Crowe Ransom and Christian Wiman-but comprehending the poems is never dependent on the reader's scholarship. These poems are plain-spoken and heartfelt. The subjects include observations of nature-prairie landscapes of Kansas (title poem) as well as the crags and forests of Scotland. You will be taken to an emergency room and surgery; you will also read about the arson of a church, even the demise of a fish. There are lessons from history and ironic observations about poetry itself. A sense of humor is found in unexpected places. Ransom reflects on childhood and maturity, and on his love and admiration for family members with challenges to meet. He is not afraid to confront questions of religion and faith in unorthodox ways. Political themes are not taboo here, but neither do they dominate. For a clash of cultures, read "Interview From Kotzebue." Or try "Darfur." Unlike the tradition of most books of poetry, Ransom includes photos and paintings. He believes that we live immersed in a culture of image and motion, which can be used to add another dimension to some poems. In that sense, this book is an experiment. If you have been confused, bored or disappointed by modern poetry, this book may help you re-engage.

Hanford Lennox Gordon's 'The Feast of the Virgins and Other Poems' is a collection of strikingly vivid and emotional poems that delve into themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Gordon's poetic style is rich in symbolism and imagery, drawing readers into a world of deep introspection and contemplation. The poems in this collection are a mix of traditional forms and free verse, showcasing Gordon's versatility and skill as a poet. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, these poems offer a glimpse into the psyche of a bygone era while still resonating with modern readers. Gordon's work stands out for its lyrical beauty and profound insights into the complexities of life and emotion. Hanford Lennox Gordon, a prominent Jamaican poet and playwright, was known for his contributions to Caribbean literature and his exploration of cultural identity. His experiences growing up in Jamaica and later traveling and studying in the United States influenced his writing style and thematic concerns. Gordon's deep connection to his homeland and his keen observations of human nature shine through in 'The Feast of the Virgins and Other Poems'. His work continues to be celebrated for its timeless relevance and universal appeal. I highly recommend 'The Feast of the Virgins and Other Poems' to readers who appreciate thought-provoking poetry that explores the depths of human experience. Gordon's collection offers a unique blend of beauty and introspection that will captivate poetry lovers and literary enthusiasts alike.