What Work Is : Book Review

"What Work Is" by Philip Levine is a deeply moving collection of poems that delve into the realities of the working class and their struggles. With raw and honest language, Levine explores the mundane and soul-crushing jobs that people undertake to survive, highlighting the profound impact these jobs have on their lives and sense of self-worth.

The book opens with the powerful and award-winning poem "What Work Is," setting the tone for the rest of the collection. Levine captures the desperation and despair of unemployment, as well as the longing for meaningful work that defines one's identity. Throughout the book, Levine's language vividly paints pictures of the working-class experience, evoking strong emotions.

Levine's poems offer glimpses into the lives and stories of individuals he encountered while working in factories and other blue-collar jobs. With a deep sense of empathy and compassion, he humanizes the struggles and aspirations of the working class. These poems explore themes of alienation, exploitation, and the loss of human connection in the modern industrialized world.

One of the remarkable aspects of "What Work Is" is Levine's ability to find beauty and resilience even in the most mundane and difficult jobs. He draws attention to the strength and dignity of the working class as they navigate the challenges of their daily routines. The poems reveal the powerful inner lives of ordinary people, highlighting their strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Overall, "What Work Is" is a thought-provoking collection of emotionally charged poems that shed light on the experiences of the working class. Levine's beautiful and evocative language, coupled with his deep empathy for the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people, make this book a powerful and memorable read. It serves as a testament to the profound impact that work has on our lives and the importance of recognizing the humanity within those who do it.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Philip Levine's book "What Work Is" has been varied. While some readers commend Levine for his powerful portrayal of American blue-collar workers and their struggles, others criticize the collection of poems as being disjointed and lacking depth.

One reader praises Levine's ability to capture the essence of working-class life, describing his poetry as honest and relatable. The reader finds the poems to be visceral and emotionally charged, offering a unique perspective on the human condition. In particular, they mention the poem "M. Degas Teaches Art & Science at Durfee Intermediate School," which explores the transformative power of art.

Contrarily, another reader feels that the collection lacks cohesiveness and structure. They find the poems to be scattered and disconnected, making it challenging to engage with the book as a whole. According to this reader, the poems would benefit from a stronger thematic thread or narrative arc to tie them together.

Several reviewers appreciate Levine's skillful use of language and imagery throughout the book. They find his style evocative and descriptive, allowing readers to vividly visualize the scenes and emotions depicted in the poems. The raw and gritty nature of Levine's poetry resonates with many readers, who applaud his ability to authentically portray the harsh realities of working-class life.

On the other hand, some readers feel that the book lacks depth and fails to explore the nuances of the subjects it tackles. They view the poems as overly simplistic and lacking a profound examination of the themes of work and identity. These reviewers were hoping for a more thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.

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