Jeremy Hooker Volgorde van de boeken

The poems reflect an autobiographical journey, rooted in the landscapes of southern England, particularly between the New Forest and the Solent. They explore the essence of place and the development of a poet, blending raw experiences with a broader understanding of existence. Hooker emphasizes 'quickness,' aiming for a deeper connection to the living reality of being rather than mere self-expression, showcasing the interplay between personal history and the environment.

The Release uniquely blends diary entries with poetry, creating an interactive dialogue between the two forms. The diary captures experiences that inspire the poems, while the poems reveal their origins in the prose. This innovative structure allows for a deeper exploration of the relationship between personal reflection and artistic expression.

Focusing on the act of attentive reading, the essays delve into the works of often-overlooked poets and visual artists, including David Jones and Welsh women poets. Hooker emphasizes the significance of localism and clarity in art, drawing connections between landscape and the creative vision of these artists. His critique not only illuminates their contributions but also reflects on his own poetic journey, creating a blend of aesthetic analysis and personal narrative. The overarching goal is to awaken a deeper awareness of artistic expression beyond mainstream trends.

This volume draws on over 50 years of poetry written by a poet whose work stands a little askew to the dominant modes in Britain, and a poet with a decided admiration for the work of both George Oppen and David Jones. Jeremy Hooker is a poet with a powerful sense of place, whose joy in landscape and his surroundings shines through his body of work.

Exploring the intersection of language and matter, this collection delves into themes of the sacred and the renewal of spiritual language within a materialist culture. It celebrates the natural and historical landscapes of Hampshire and South Wales, while featuring elegies that honor friends and influential poets like T. S. Eliot and James Schuyler. Central to the work is the concept of 'quickness,' examining how words can breathe life into stone and connect with the essence of the departed.

Exploring the intricate connections of family, the poems delve into the 'river of desire' that shapes personal identity across generations. Jeremy Hooker reflects on his parents, grandparents, and an elusive great-grandfather, celebrating the unity of life through familial ties. The work is deeply rooted in the landscapes of southern England, emphasizing places that resonate within individuals. Drawing inspiration from his father's landscape paintings, Hooker portrays his relatives as vibrant, loving figures, highlighting the complexity of understanding one's lineage.

The journal captures Jeremy Hooker's profound reflections following a stroke in 1999, detailing his hospital stay and recovery. As he confronts mortality, he intertwines observations of his surroundings with poignant memories from his youth, particularly of his family and rural southern England during and after World War II. The diary evolves into a memoir, rich with sensory detail and emotional depth, as Hooker navigates both physical rehabilitation and the resurgence of his past, highlighting the interplay between life, memory, and meaning.

Jeremy Hooker's new collection shows him producing some of his finest work.

Chronicling a transformative period from the late 1970s to the late 1980s, the journal captures the author's experiences of personal upheaval, including the end of a marriage and a return to Wales for teaching. Lodging with a friend, the author navigates travels to reconnect with family while reflecting on significant relationships, particularly with Mieke, whom he meets in 1983. The narrative culminates in his application for a new teaching position in England, marking a pivotal moment in his life.

The journal captures Jeremy Hooker's experiences in North America during the 1994-5 academic year, reflecting on his identity as an Englishman in a foreign land. It explores his personal and literary connections to the region, paralleling his earlier reflections in 'Welsh Journal.' Through poetic insights, Hooker delves into themes of belonging and cultural exchange, offering a unique perspective on his journey and the landscapes he encounters.