The Best American Poetry 2007 : Book Review

"The Best American Poetry 2007" is a captivating anthology edited by Heather McHugh that presents a diverse and vibrant selection of contemporary American poetry. This collection contains a mosaic of voices and styles, showcasing poems from renowned literary magazines and allowing readers to experience the ever-evolving landscape of American poetry.

McHugh's curation takes us on a thought-provoking journey through a wide range of poetic expressions. The poems in this anthology explore themes such as love, loss, identity, and the human condition, each offering a unique perspective and language. From the deeply personal to the politically charged, these poems engage readers with their insight and beautiful lyrical quality.

One of the anthology's strengths is its ability to feature both established and lesser-known poets. McHugh illuminates emerging and underrepresented writers, giving readers the opportunity to discover new talent and gain fresh perspectives. This inclusion of diverse voices creates a tapestry of poetic brilliance that captivates and inspires.

In addition to the poetic selections, McHugh provides valuable commentary on the state of contemporary American poetry. Her introduction and notes offer insightful analysis, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the poems and their significance within the literary landscape.

Overall, "The Best American Poetry 2007" edited by Heather McHugh is an exceptional collection that celebrates the power and beauty of American poetry. Through its carefully chosen poems and insightful commentary, this anthology offers a rewarding reading experience for poetry enthusiasts and newcomers alike, inviting them to immerse themselves in the vast and ever-evolving world of contemporary poetry.

What are readers saying?

"The Best American Poetry 2007," edited by Heather McHugh, received varied feedback from readers, encompassing both positive and negative remarks. Many readers found the anthology enjoyable, applauding the assortment of poetic styles and the inclusion of established and emerging poets. They commended McHugh's skill in curating thought-provoking poems that captured the essence of contemporary poetry. Several readers even expressed gratitude for being introduced to new voices in the poetic world, highlighting specific pieces that resonated with them.

On the flip side, there were readers who felt let down by the collection. They believed the poems lacked depth and were either confusing or inaccessible. Personal disconnection with the explored themes left some struggling to form emotional connections with the poems. Additionally, a few readers found the selection of poems unengaging, claiming that they failed to leave a lasting impression.

A recurring criticism among reviewers was the inconsistency in the quality of the poems. While some pieces were highly praised for their craftsmanship, others were viewed as weak or excessively verbose. Some readers expressed a preference for fewer experimental or abstract poems, as they found them difficult to appreciate within the context of the entire collection. Furthermore, a few readers wished for a more diverse representation of poets, feeling that the selection process appeared biased.

Despite the mixed reception, readers generally agreed that "The Best American Poetry 2007" successfully offered a diverse snapshot of contemporary poetry. The anthology expanded their literary horizons by exposing them to different styles and voices within a single volume. While many readers praised the collection for these advancements, others were disappointed by the overall execution and impact of the poems.