Book Review: No Place Like by Adam Beardsworth
Adam Beardsworth’s collection of poetry, No Place Like, tells all sorts of different stories surrounding the theme of the climate crisis, and living in a world hurtling toward an ominous point of no return. Split into three overarching parts, Home, Earth, and Sky, each brings a new perspective on this challenging subject, through the lens of wider themes and the ordinary everyday.
Beardsworth’s poetic range is striking. Fluctuating from beautifully sweet tales of his “Alien” child, to witty verses such as “Wives of the YMCA,” to poems such as “Suburban” and “Alien 2,” which detail accurately what it feels like to live in a world devoid of hope for the future, a world where parents grapple with guilt over the challenges their children will face.
These poems explore the feelings of climate grief and anxiety. In “Suburban,” he talks about “Streets named for what died to make them: Poplar, Maple, Ash, Whitepine,” alongside his feelings when the one tree on his street was paved over in order to make room for a double driveway, which felt reminiscent of Joni Mitchell’s big yellow taxi. This commentary was super interesting to digest, especially as someone who has grown up in a world that has felt doomed from the start.
While climate grief and anxiety are heavy subjects, Beardsworth skillfully integrates moments of humor throughout his collection, offering a breath of fresh air amidst the weighty themes. This unpredictability keeps readers engaged, curious to discover what lies ahead in the next poetic gem.
One of the collection’s remarkable strengths lies in Beardsworth’s masterful use of rhythm. Although each poem carries a distinct identity, he maintains a consistent pace through the book, creating a harmonious and immersive reading experience.
No Place Like is a beautiful collection of poetry that fearlessly delves into the complexities of the climate crisis. Adam Beardsworth’s artistry invites readers to confront their emotions head-on, while his observations and moments of humour allow the collection to feel intimate and authentic.
Through this remarkable work, Beardsworth emerges as a voice for our time, one that resonates deeply. No Place Like is not merely a poetry collection; it’s a thought-provoking journey that inspires introspection and calls for collective action.
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