Christine De Luca lives in Edinburgh. She writes in English and Shetlandic, her mother tongue. She was appointed Edinburgh's Makar (laureate) for 2014-2017. Besides several children's stories (in Shetlandic) and one novel, she has had seven poetry collections and four bi-lingual volumes published (French, Italian, Icelandic and Norwegian) and has been active in translation. She has also co-authored/edited two books including her poems, most recently Paolozzi at Large in Edinburgh (Luath Press, 2018).
"This innovative format works well as readers may challenge
themselves to understand the blended dialect of Old Scots and Norse
before enjoying the translated version.The sense of place in each
of the poems is strong. There is an appreciation of the beauty and
power of the natural world, and man's place in it. Contemporary
references exist but the overall feel is elemental, the language
vivid and full-flavoured.This Material World describes an Icelandic
volcano. "earth rearranging herself, unslept, unsettled;
reminding us of her ways and timelines, our momentariness" A
feeling of timelessness permeates the collection. Beach work sees
the narrator shunning the tasks they should be completing to
appreciate the moment and treasure it. The importance of such
prioritisation comes to the fore when considering the subject of
What's in a name? - the losing of memory when elderly. "if the name
I chose for you eludes me.
I'll still sense mountain, water, love." Although poignant this is
a reminder that parents can still exist, and find contentment,
beyond their recognition of offspring. Several of the poems explore
the harvesting of nature's goodness on both land and sea. There is
a sense of freedom in walks taken as narrators observe and listen
to birds, beasts, fields and streams. Those of different
generations are appreciated, their lives leaving an imprint. Births
are celebrated. "The heavens themselves blaze forth nativity,
wrap a blessing round a little one whose first breath
reincarnates the dust of galaxies" The beauty and pathos within
these pages offers a strong evocation of people as just one,
transient part of wider nature. Senses are heightened and what is
of true value respected. Although never sugar coating, the poems
are appreciative of the life and beauty of existence. An uplifting
and powerful collection. Recommended for all, not just those who
already enjoy reading poetry." Jackie Law
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