Jackson Pollock: Memories Arrested in Space

by Martin Gray

Jackson Pollock: Memories Arrested in Space is Martin Gray’s remarkable biographical poem on the life of the dynamic and controversial American painter. The narrative chronicles the reckless, adventurous, and often desperate life of the twentieth century’s most pivotal American artist, from his beginnings in the American northwest through his pioneering of a revolutionary new painting technique that came to be known as Abstract Expressionism to his death at the wheel of a car on Long Island when he was only 44 years old.

Written entirely in iambic trimeter (the same meter that Gray used to write about Charlie Parker’s life and work in his internationally acclaimed Blues for Bird), Gray’s biographical poem runs more than 3,000 lines.

In Jackson Pollock: Memories Arrested in Space, Gray captures the essence of the brilliant yet tortured artist in language that reflects a Pollock painting: spontaneous, beautiful, and haunting, with bursts of energy that touch the soul and make it soar. Art and poetry lovers alike will rejoice in Gray’s homage to a true American icon.

216 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

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Reviews

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a verse biography written in iambic trimeter which was a fascinating way to read about Jackson Pollock's life. I found myself reading aloud to hear the rhythm of the writing and in a way, the author's words seemed like splashes of color almost illustrative of Pollock's painting style. I learned new and heartbreaking facts about the artist's life and gained an even greater appreciation for his talent and work.

I researched paintings online that the author mentioned and this added a wonderful layer of understanding to this book and Jackson Pollock's evolving style.

I have never before read such a unique biographical writing style and welcome the chance to read Martin Gray's other book about Charlie Parker's jazz.

[Tami · Rating 3 out of 5]

different writing style, story was eye opening. i enjoyed it.