If Not, Winter
Fragments Of Sappho
(Author) Anne CarsonFrom the critically acclaimed poet and classicist Anne Carson: a brilliant new translation of the work of Sappho, together with the original Greek. During her life on the island of Lesbos, Sappho is said to have composed nine books of lyrics. Only one poem has survived complete. In IF NOT, WINTER, Carson presents all the extant fragments of Sappho's verse, employing brackets and white space to denote missing text - allowing the reader to imagine the poems as they were written. Carson says of her method of translation: 'I like to think that, the more I stand out of the way, the more Sappho shows through.' And certainly her translation illuminates Sappho's reflections on love and desire, her companions and rivals, the goddess Aphrodite, her own daughter, Kleis. IF NOT, WINTER gives us an extraordinary ancient poet brought alive by a brilliantly empathetic contemporary poet. Complete with Carson's introduction and notes, it will become the standard translation of Sappho for our time.
Anne Carson
Anne Carson is a Canadian poet, essayist, and translator known for her innovative and genre-defying work. She is best known for her collections of poetry, including "Autobiography of Red" and "The Beauty of the Husband," as well as her translations of ancient Greek texts such as "An Oresteia" and "If Not, Winter: Fragments of Sappho."
Carson's writing is characterized by its blend of classical mythology, personal narrative, and linguistic experimentation. Her work often challenges traditional notions of genre and form, pushing the boundaries of what poetry can be. Carson has been praised for her ability to create deeply emotional and intellectually stimulating work that defies easy categorization.
Carson has had a significant impact on contemporary literature, influencing a new generation of writers with her distinctive voice and innovative approach to storytelling. Her work has been celebrated for its lyrical beauty, intellectual rigor, and fearless exploration of complex themes such as love, loss, and desire.
One of Carson's most famous works is "Autobiography of Red," a novel-in-verse that reimagines the myth of the monster Geryon from Greek mythology. The book received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Carson's reputation as a leading voice in contemporary literature.
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