Breathing Under Water

by Susan Bright

A cycle of poems spoken in the voice of a commiunity of swimmers and environmentalists who gather at one of the most beautiful natural springs in the US. "Breathing Under Water" is an anthology of poetry at once personal, local and planetary. Weaving the voices, dreams and real time work of a community of dedicated swimmers and environmentalists who gather around an emerald, spring fed, fresh water swimming hole five minutes from the capital building in Austin, Texas, the poet creates a rich ethnographic voice, the voice of a community working to preserve a natural treasure which is known far and wide a "the soul of the city. This is what poetry must be if it is to play a part in the future of American artistic expression. With 'Breathing Under Water" we dip into the spirit of community -- all its laughter, its tears, its promise and fears, all its crazy post modern complexity. (Ric Williams, "Austin Chronicle")

94 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Susan Bright's book made me want to get in the water and swim, and I'd have to say that it is partially responsible for my return to Masters Swim. While a bit uneven in poetic merit, the sensibility and imagery spoke to me. Watery camaraderie is something I can wrap my mind around.