The Angel of Absolute Zero

Book excerpt: Marjorie Stelmach's new collection, The Angel of Absolute Zero, seeks to engage its readers in thoughtful reflection on our difficult times. The opening section of the book, entitled Canticle of Want, introduces the collection's governing characteristic: these poems want a lot. They ask us to view our damaged planet and acknowledge our complicity; to question "how it is we have come to this" and take heart in our wish to be more worthy; to accept suffering and loss and yet feel gratitude, expect joy. In short, these poems aspire to "teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom."