Eskimo Pie: A Poetics of Inuit Identity

by Norma Dunning

Eskimo A Poetics of Inuit Identity examines Dunning's lived history as an Inuk who was born, raised and continues to live south of sixty. Her writing takes into account the many assimilative practices that Inuit continue to face and the expectations of mainstream as to what an Inuk person can and should be. Her words examine what it is like to feel the constant rejection of her work from non-Inuit people and how we must all in some way find the spirit to carry through with what we hold to be true demonstrating the importance of standing tall and close to our words as Indigenous Canadians. We are the guardians of our work regardless of the cost to ourselves as artists and as Inuit people, we matter.

Genres: Poetry

67 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2020

Reviews

[Amanda Schutz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a big poetry reader but this book brought me to tears... many of these works feature my home town and this has opened my eyes to new perspectives. Beautifully written.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not sure what drew me to this book when I saw it on display on my local library, usually I am not much of a poetry person. That being said, some of these poems are absolutely heartbreaking. My favourites were "An Eskimo Proclamation" and "Does This Mean She Never Lived?" They definitely give you something to think about.

[Marie-Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just beautiful Poetry

[Friederike Knabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of poetry in it different forms is not a book that you read from page 1 to the end in one go. Each poem deserves and invites reflection. You want to go back as you ponder the issues that Norma Dunning addresses. This is a treasure of a poetry collection to open your mind and increase your appreciation of Inuit Identity.

[Vivian Zenari · Rating 3 out of 5]

The poetry is not the greatest, but I appreciated the expression of the narrator's experiences. I liked best the poems "Mamaqtuq," Inukshuk," "Kudlik" and the snarky "Silenced Once Reconciliation Part 1"

[Joey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciate poems that I can understand. This collection is sometimes vulnerable, sometimes powerful, sometimes poignant. I can very much relate to her thoughts and sentiment despite our different backgrounds. Looking forward to more of her work!

[Kasia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really beautiful book - Dunning switches between poetry and prose. I prefer her longer stories and the ease with which she writes - very powerful

[Rose Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but savage, and rightly so TBH.
Again, the glossary is much-appreciated!

[Janet Mercer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sharp, telling, a bridge between worlds, keep writing!

[Juanita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I don't know how to describe this book. Definitely creative. A new perspective on Inuit identity, at least for me. I am grateful to Dunning for sharing her voice.