A Very Large Array: Selected Poems

Jena Osman's writing reinvents poetry as an instrument for dissecting vision, language, and power, transforming official language into comic, chilling, and relentlessly inventive writing. Her books include Motion Studies, Public Figures, The Network, An Essay in Asterisks, and The Character.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: DABA

Osman's writing revolutionizes poetry as a tool for exploring vision, language, and power. This comprehensive collection spans over 30 years, encompassing poems from journals and books that have long been out of print. Her poetry uncovers overlooked visual and linguistic incidents throughout centuries of American history, transforming official language, from Supreme Court opinions to the chatter of Predator drone pilots, into captivating, chilling, and relentlessly inventive writing.

Jena Osman, born in 1963, is a celebrated poet whose books include Motion Studies (Ugly Duckling Presse, 2019), Public Figures (Wesleyan University Press, 2012), The Network (Fence Books, 2010, selected for the National Poetry Series in 2009), An Essay in Asterisks (Roof Books, 2004), and The Character (Beacon Press, winner of the 1998 Barnard New Women Poets Prize). She currently resides in Philadelphia.

Osman's poetry is characterized by its ability to transform mundane and official language into captivating and innovative forms. She skillfully weaves together historical incidents, visual imagery, and linguistic nuances to create a rich tapestry of poetic expression. Her work explores themes of power, vision, language, and identity, challenging societal norms and offering fresh perspectives on the human experience.

Through her meticulous attention to detail and her imaginative use of language, Osman's poetry offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the world. Her poems are accessible yet profound, resonating with readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether examining the complexities of love, the politics of power, or the nuances of language, Osman's writing invites us to reexamine our perceptions and engage with the world in new and exciting ways.

In conclusion, Jena Osman's writing is a testament to the power of poetry to transform and inspire. Her extensive collection showcases her talent for dissecting vision, language, and power, offering a fresh perspective on American history and the human experience. Osman's poetry is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the boundaries of language and imagination.

Dimension: 210 x 146 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781734681796