Briny

by Mandy Haggith

Briny, the latest collection of poems from Mandy Haggith, reflects her passion for the sea, whether lapping the shores of the northwest Highlands where she lives or afloat on the wild waters of the Minch. The poems throng with sealife, from barnacles to bowhead whales, charting sailing passages and swims, drawing deeply on intimate lived experience of the marine world. A sharp, clear lyrical voice sings here with seabirds and seals.

Mandy Haggith teaches Literature and Creative Writing at the University of the Highlands and Islands. Her previous publications include five poetry collections, a poetry anthology, a non-fiction book and five novels. She is a RYA-qualified yacht skipp

Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fellow thalassophile, living in the Scottish Highlands, this book fully resonated with me.

The lyrical rhythm of the waves suffuses this collection, drawing us down into the sea. Whether swimming, sailing or walking, it reminds us that the sea is our home and we share it with other creatures. Tender and calming, there is an undercurrent here too, pulling at us, compelling us take notice, acknowledge the otherness and ‘us-ness’ of the sea.

[Adelaide · Rating 4 out of 5]

My mom bought me this book of poetry in Scotland. I was a little worried about not being able to fully understand all of it but that wasn’t the case. In fact when I started reading this it wasn’t even on Goodreads yet! So glad that it is! Plus I have a signed copy!

[Mandy Haggith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm biased, obviously, but this book of sea poems is my best so far. It has been longlisted for the Highland Book Prize.