Predators: Reflections on a Theme

by John Garbutt

Reflections on a Theme is itself a reflection of the dark side of the world we live in, with perhaps a few signs of hope – and these have to searched for. Part I is a sequence of impressions of the animal world, taking an unsentimental look at the daily struggle of carnivores for survival. Part II takes ‘predators’ in the metaphorical sense and looks at the world of ‘true crime’ through familiar and infamous examples. Part III is a sequence of impressions of major events in which conflict has caused catastrophe. It adopts an unsparing view of those responsible for taking life. The Epilogue has a different tone, taking heart from Shakespeare’s lines in All’s Well that Ends ‘Love all, trust a few, Do harm to none.’ The Epilogue goes on to direct attention to modern war as it is waged against civilians, and carries forward the note of remembrance. The impressions are conveyed in language intended to be clear and accessible. In Part II the language is pared down the bone. At the same time, there are passages that seek to do what verse can sometimes do with great concentrate meaning and provoke thought. For those who would like to read more, though in prose, the sequence of poems is supported by an extended review of sources, notes and other writings.

222 pages, Paperback

Published November 7, 2016