Watch your language Visual and literary reflections on a century of American poetry

Devised as a companion piece to the author's 2023 poetry collection, So to Speak (see p.16), this assemblage of book criticism (and autobiography seeks to map "a landscape of literary, cultural, and personal influence" through the uniquely "lifesaving, telepathic capacity of poetry." Hayes traces his own canon of influential writers and lyricists, many of whom will be familiar to most, including Gwendolyn Brooks, Lucille Clifton, and Sonia Sanchez, but just as many are lesser known, such as Joel Dias-Porter, Cesária Évora, and Tim Seibles. A freewheeling work of creative originality, the text includes hand-drawn illustrations, pages that appear to be photocopied from textbooks, provocative prompts ("How Many of Your Muses Rest in Peace?"), and such inventions as the Renegade Poetic Fortune-Telling Machine, cobbled together from "a Cape Verdean's Volkswagen, miles and miles of speaker wire, an old-school slot machine, and a casino stool with a plush seat cushion." Equal parts zine, poetic bibliography, and interior atlas to Hayes' literary inheritance, this imaginative undertaking will intrigue aficionados of the author's expanding oeuvre and anyone looking for artistic inspiration.

In a remarkable literary endeavor, Hayes has woven an enthralling journey encapsulating poetry, essays, reviews, and sketches, skillfully crafting a tapestry that displays aspects of his own life. With an astute curator's eye, he navigates diverse themes, including race, language, freedom, and history, presenting entries ranging from concise one-page musings to more elaborate 10-page explorations. This meticulous compilation not only showcases the author's creative prowess but also beckons readers into a realm of critical thinking. Additionally, Hayes draws upon the works of renowned poets such as Emily Dickinson, Walt Whitman, and Gwendolyn Brooks. These literary giants act as guideposts, framing the discussion and facilitating an introduction to the works of other authors. This is a nuanced guidebook to the intricate landscape of poetry. What sets this collection apart is the author's engagement with readers through evocative sketches and creative elements, enriching the textual experience. Each entry is a thoughtful exploration that invites readers into a world of introspection and contemplation. VERDICT This book serves as a beacon for teenagers seeking an introduction to the art of poetry and is also a profound insight into the complexities of life.--Jessica Calaway