Domestic Work: Poems

I found these so familiar--they evoked Southern life so well. Touched now and then with the darkness of Trethewey's mother's murder, they never descended into anger. Beautiful poems from a beautiful soul.

I've never been a big fan of poetry. While there are a few well written poems that I have understood and enjoyed in life, most just seemed like, um, gobbledy-gook on paper. Maybe this stems from the way we teach poetry in this country, but that's a topic for discussion on another day.These poems of Natasha Trethewey's, though, really speak to me. After hearing an interview with the author my interest was picqued, and so I bought her Native Guard book. I enjoy the voices and points of view that I hear in those poems, but these in Domestic Work are very poignant. I can imagine a way of life that I know very little about, other than stories my great-grandmother told me when I was a little girl. Trethewey's imagery is superb - she creates portraits with her words, and then gives us a little more by telling us what SHE sees these characters doing right before and after this snapshot of the lives they lead. This book goes straight to the top of my (VERY short) poetry list.

I really enjoyed this book of poems. Natasha Trethewey is one of my favorite poets! Domestic Work is impressive!

Written with subtlety and great feeling, so well put!

I don't normally read poetry, but purchased after I heard the author speak at a commencement. This poetry is very moving and I have reread several times. I have recommended book to several friends.

It was new.

Beautiful collection.

good