Manyebook

Upgraded to Serious

Heather McHugh presents a fast-paced, verbally dexterous, and brilliantly humorous book. Utilizing medical terminology and iconography to work through loss and detachment, McHugh’s startling rhymes and rhythms — along with her sarcastic self-reflection and infectious laughter — serve as antidotes to the sufferings of the world. Being “upgraded to serious” from critical condition is a nod to the healing powers of poetry.

"Not to Be Dwelled On"

Self-interest cropped up even there,

the day I hoisted three instead

of the ceremonially called-for two

spadefuls of loam

onto the coffin of my friend.

Why shovel more than anybody else?

What did I think I’d prove? More love

(mud in her eye)? More will to work?

(Her father what, a shirker?) Christ,

what wouldn’t anybody give

to get that gesture back?

She cannot die again; and I

do nothing but re-live.

  • Format
  • hardcover
  • Pages
  • 82
  • Language
  • english
  • ISBN
  • 9781556593062
  • Genres
  • poetry
  • Release date
  • 2009