Losing Ithaca

by Christopher Southgate

Paperback

Reviews

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Southgate’s most recent collection of poetry, 'Losing Ithaca', maintains his remarkably high standard. His work ranges from exquisite descriptions of the natural world (‘Deer, Towards Dusk’ is a particular stand out) to explorations into loss and grief (‘Facts of Farewell’ tears at the heart), from sideways looks at religious themes (‘Self Appraisal of a Magi’, referencing T.S. Eliot, is irresistible) to quirky summaries of topics in patterns of six (‘Six Reasons Why I Am In Love With Greta Thunberg’!) — with sideways and often mischievous looks at other poets, painters, the role of humanity on the planet, ‘Ladies who Trek’, and more. His work is by turn thoughtful, serious, allusive witty — and always beautifully fashioned. This is poetry at its best.