NARCISSISM

Whitmore press, 2005.

‘In Maria Takolander’s first collection we find all the qualities we look for in a new poet: accomplishment, verve, technical flair, memorable phrases, unexpected intellections—above all, originality and boldness, a gamey contribution to the long unfolding polyphonic song that is poetry. This is zesty writing, individual and unintimidated by the sharp nature of much of the material. “Beauty doing its job”, to quote the poet.’—Peter Rose.

‘These poems, as fine as bone china, have an acuity of image, tone and phrase that can cut to the bone, laying bare how the perception of “the unfathomable suddenly everywhere” becomes a mode of being. In Maria Takolander, poetry has found a fresh articulation and a new voice.’—Paul Kane.

Reviews

'The most notable aspect of Maria Takolander's work is its intensity . . . its precise articulation of violence.'—Island.

'Challenging and . . . disturbing . . . A book of great accomplishment.'—Australian Book Review.