Wonderings

by Kenneth Patchen

Book by Patchen, Kenneth

Genres: Poetry, Fiction

Paperback

First published December 12, 1971

About the author

Kenneth Patchen was an American poet and novelist. He experimented with different forms of writing and incorporated painting, drawing, and jazz music into his works, which have been compared with those of William Blake and Walt Whitman. Patchen's biographer wrote that he "developed in his fabulous fables, love poems, and picture poems a deep yet modern mythology that conveys a sense of compassionate wonder amidst the world's violence." Along with his friend and peer Kenneth Rexroth, he was a central influence on the San Francisco Renaissance and the Beat Generation.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very unique and entertaining - reminded me of a collaboration between Dali and Dr. Seuss! I really enjoy books that make me expand my thinking; I find that the connections I make through books that help me think in a different way often add to my understanding of topics I have had problems with. I can truly say this is one such book!

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this set of picture poems. I have seen them in other anthologies that wrap together several books. Still a shorter book means chewing on each page a bit longer and really letting it soak in when it comes to text/image like this. A beautiful volume with some of Patchen's best!

[Masked · Rating 4 out of 5]

good poetry. good drawings.

[Catherine McMahon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just adore Patchen's obscure style of poetry he accompanies with whimsical, imaginative yet slightly disturbing drawings- it really just scratches that one itch in my brain.

[Sean A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

the second book of patchens picture poems i've read this month, and it was even more delightful, gorgeous, aptly light and heavy than the first.

[Winter Branch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This really isn't a book but a work of art. I have read it many times in my life. Its great for something to read or just look at whenever you have a bit of downtime.. you know, whenever you are feeling quiet and reflective or whatever... find it, read it.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

everyman is me!!!!!!