by Sara Ricci
Part of LM Voices' Tiny Review series
Eileen Myles' I Must Be Living Twice is a vibrant, thought-provoking collection that showcases the poet's distinctive voice and unflinching honesty. This volume, which compiles both new and selected poems, is a testament to Myles' enduring impact on contemporary poetry, offering readers a comprehensive look at their evolution as a writer and a person.
Myles' poetry is characterized by its conversational tone and directness, a style that makes even the most complex emotions and themes accessible. "I Must Be Living Twice" captures the essence of this approach, with poems that range from the deeply personal to the broadly political. The collection is a blend of past and present, providing a unique opportunity to witness Myles' growth over the decades.
One of the standout features of Myles' work is their exploration of identity and self. As a queer poet, Myles often delves into themes of gender and sexuality with a candor that is both refreshing and necessary. Their poems tackle the fluidity of identity and the intricacies of self-discovery, offering a voice that resonates with those who find themselves on the fringes of conventional society. In works like "An American Poem," Myles weaves personal narrative with cultural critique, creating a poignant commentary on the intersections of identity and nationhood.
The new poems included in "I Must Be Living Twice" exhibit a maturity and depth that demonstrate Myles' continued growth as a poet. These works are reflective, often contemplative, and show a keen awareness of time and memory. Myles captures fleeting moments with a precision that is almost photographic, imbuing everyday scenes with a sense of significance. Their ability to find the profound in the mundane is one of their greatest strengths, drawing readers into a world where every detail matters.
Myles' observational skill is particularly evident in their urban landscapes. New York City, a recurring backdrop in their poetry, comes alive through Myles' words. They capture the grit, chaos, and beauty of the city, creating vivid portraits of life in an urban environment. This sense of place is not just physical but also emotional, reflecting the impact of the city on the individual psyche.
Emotionally, Myles' poetry spans a wide range. They navigate themes of love, loss, joy, and despair with equal adeptness. Their poems are raw and unfiltered, offering a glimpse into the poet's inner world. This emotional honesty is one of the hallmarks of Myles' work, creating a connection with readers that is both intimate and powerful. In poems like "Peanut Butter," Myles captures the bittersweet nature of memory and longing, using simple, everyday imagery to evoke profound emotional responses. The political dimension of Myles' poetry is also significant. They do not shy away from addressing issues of inequality, injustice, and societal failure. Their work is a critique of the status quo, urging readers to question and challenge the world around them. This political engagement adds a layer of urgency and relevance to Myles' poetry, making it not only a reflection of personal experience but also a call to action.
In conclusion, "I Must Be Living Twice" is a masterful collection that encapsulates the essence of Eileen Myles' poetic voice. It is a blend of old and new, personal and political, intimate and universal. Myles' work is characterized by its conversational tone, vivid imagery, and fearless exploration of identity and society. For readers seeking poetry that is both thought-provoking and deeply personal, this collection is an essential read.
Sara Ricci was born in southern Italy. Having graduated in languages and currently a dishwasher, she dedicates most of her time to reading and writing (or even thinking about writing), absolutely convinced it is the only way to deconstruct reality in order to make proper sense of it.
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