Tragedy, Ecstasy, Doom, and so on

Kelsay Books / ISBN: 978-1952326-18-9 / $18.50

These poems are a measuring of hope and dread, a collection that shows us the beautiful, bright photograph then places it next to its dark, disturbing photographic negative. In these poems, we witness, for example, Salvador Dali going to work in an office. The discourse issuing from these efforts is redemptive, even if it doesn’t come in the form of answers. These poems intrigue with their questioning of the human condition, a state somewhere between spirit and stranger. As the poems move easily into Mark Rothko’s art and life, the discourse continues but in the form of colors, of juxtapositions, guiding our understanding of them from canvas to soul. In sum, the poems stay true to exploring an initial, profound insight: The other man that I am.

                         - Alberto Rios

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Kip Knott's first full-length collection of poetry is twenty years overdue, years during which I've remained steadfast in my admiration of his unique and provocative verses. Good news: Tragedy, Ecstasy, Doom, and so on has arrived, and it's right on time after all. These poems are mature, taut, inquisitive, masculine in the best sense, intersections of riddle and wisdom, regret and gratitude. For all the liveliness of this book, there's a stillness here that surprises, a somberness in its landscapes, the soundings of a life fully and thoughtfully lived that compels our attention. Who knew that ecstasy could be so dire, while doom so much fun? More good news: a whole new generation of poetry lovers can now find out.

                        - Gaylord Brewer

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Read a full review by Steve Abbott in The Ekphrastic Review.

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