America

In Fernando Valverde's America, "e;sorrow is ancient."e; Mournfully lyrical, politically sharp, with a sweeping view of American roots, dysfunctions, and ideals-as if from above, and yet also from within-this is a book that deconstructs the legacy of empire. From the Mississippi River to Fulton Avenue, from slavery to "e;lone wolf"e; shooters, Valverde grieves but does not wince away from all that is lost to greed and a culture of violence, painting an urgent portrait of "e;the thirst of America / a smile satisfied to death."e; Valverde is widely regarded as one of the most important younger Spanish-language poets. Here his vibrant voice and convictions are translated and introduced by Carolyn Forche, herself a world-renowned poet of witness. Bilingual, with Spanish originals and English translations.