The Tongues of Earth

Book excerpt: Along with the finest pieces from his three previous books, often in revised form, The Tongues of Earth includes 20 new poems. Known as a writer of place, in The Tongues of Earth Abley extends his range over time and history. These poems are distinguished by their combination of clarity and grace, high intelligence and deep feeling. Poems such as “Mother and Son”, “Labrador” and “Glasburyon” are the work of a literary artist with few peers in Canada. To those who have known Abley only as a prose writer, this book will come as a revelation. Endorsed by Julie Bruck, who won the Governor General's Award for English-language poetry in 2012.