Wild Gratitude

Edward Hirsch is a really incredible poet. He has the most beautifully unique way of describing things, his metaphors are incredible, and he writes about things that are part of the human experience. I related to so many of the poems in this collection, especially the poem "Unhappy Love Poem," and "In Spite of Everything, The Stars." I've read other collections by Edward Hirsch which are absolutely stunning as well, so if you're looking for a poet to really look into, Hirsch is a great option. If you're looking for another great book by him I would highly recommend "Gabriel," which is a touching book about his son.

These poems are so detailed, but not incomprehensible in the best possible way. I’m not the biggest fan of poetry, but after reading Edward Hirsch’s Wild Gratitude I wonder how much I had been missing out on. I guess I half expected poetry to be hard to understand. Instead, the language used in Hirsch’s poems makes so much sense, and feels so familiar. However, there is still so much room for a reader's own interpretation of the texts and what Hirsch is trying to say with his beautifully crafted words. My favorite poem of this book has got to be “Ancient Signs.” This poem touched me in a way I have never experienced. The only way I can explain this excerpt is nostalgia in a bottle, or I guess more accurately the pages. This poem intricately brought some of my own memories of losing loved ones to my mind, but not in a grieving way. It is so miraculous that an author can touch grief in almost a peaceful, gentle way. If I could explain Hirsch’s poems, it would be just that. He touches all these emotions in a way that surprises you, but also connects yourself to the words on the page. I’d encourage anyone who loves poetry or anyone who is skeptical about reading poetry to give Hirsch’s works a try. You won’t regret it. It makes for both a comforting and eye-opening read, which I didn’t think was possible. From the elegantly written pages to the familiar feeling and stories, these poems are as close as you can get to a masterpiece.

Great poems from a great writer who writes from about life