Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets

Edited by Adrienne Rich

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Publication Date: October 1, 2023

: 978-0393354290

Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets is a breathtaking anthology that gathers a stellar cast of renowned and emerging voices in poetry to celebrate the transformative power of words and the enduring legacy of those who wield them—poets.

Through lyrical verses and evocative imagery, these poems explore the rich tapestry of emotions, experiences, and insights that shape the lives of poets. From the intimate struggles of solitude to the profound impact of language, from the search for meaning to the boundless realms of imagination, these poems delve into the heart of what it means to be a poet and the extraordinary ways they impact our world.

Featuring a diverse range of voices from across generations and continents, Out of Wonder offers a kaleidoscopic view of the poetic landscape, showcasing the unique perspectives and styles that define contemporary poetry. With contributions from established masters like Louise Glück, Billy Collins, and Mary Oliver, to rising stars like Ocean Vuong, Tracy K. Smith, and Jericho Brown, this anthology captures the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of the art form.

Excerpt from "Ars Poetica" by Tracy K. Smith

I go to the window to see the blown lilac darken in rain. It is a kind of failure, and I can love it because it is mine.

Louise Glück

Louise Glück is a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet known for her insightful and emotionally evocative work. Her poems often explore themes of loss, memory, and the human condition.

Billy Collins

Billy Collins is a former U.S. Poet Laureate known for his witty and accessible poems. His work often explores everyday life and the joys of language.

Mary Oliver

Mary Oliver was a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet known for her luminous and nature-inspired work. Her poems often celebrate the beauty of the natural world and our connection to it.

Ocean Vuong

Ocean Vuong is a Vietnamese-American poet known for his powerful and tender work. His poems often explore themes of love, loss, and immigration.

Tracy K. Smith

Tracy K. Smith is a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate. Her work often explores themes of race, memory, and the power of art.

Jericho Brown

Jericho Brown is a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet known for his powerful and unflinching work. His poems often explore themes of race, sexuality, and the American South.

With its stunning cover artwork by renowned artist Kara Walker, Out of Wonder is an exquisite collection that invites readers to immerse themselves in the boundless realm of poetry. These poems are not mere words on a page, but portals into the minds and hearts of those who dare to give voice to the ineffable. They offer inspiration, solace, and a profound understanding of the human experience.

Whether you are a seasoned poetry lover or just beginning to discover the magic of words, Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets is an essential addition to your bookshelf. Its pages hold a treasury of poetic gems that will ignite your imagination and leave you forever transformed by the power of poetry.