Ever picked up a poetry book that feels like a punch to the chest? Richard Siken's Crush, from the Yale Series of Younger Poets, hits that spot. Selected as the 2004 winner, it's a collection fueled by obsession, love, and a raw erotic charge that Louise Glück called 'apocalyptic' in her introduction. This isn't gentle verse—it's poetry that drags you into the storm.
In a sea of polished lines, Siken's work roars with confessional fire. He tackles desire, violence, and gay love with cinematic flair, making every page feel urgent and alive. Critics rave: it's an Atlantic pick for Best American Poetry of the 21st Century and a finalist for the 2005 National Book Critics Circle Award. Victoria Chang nailed it—Siken's got 'cinematic brilliance and urgency' that marks one of the best contemporary poetry books out there.
Imagine late nights where words slice through your defenses, revealing the messy truth of longing. Readers dive into scenarios of tangled bodies and shattered hearts, emerging with that purgatorial rush Glück described. It's perfect for anyone questioning love's sharp edges or seeking poetry that mirrors real, visceral human experience. Whether you're a poetry devotee or new to verse, Crush delivers cumulative power that lingers.
This paperback isn't just a read—it's an encounter. At around 400 words of pure impact per sitting (though you'll want to savor it), it answers the ache for honest, boundary-pushing poetry. Fans of confessional poets like Plath or contemporary voices in LGBTQ+ literature will find a kindred spirit. Snag your copy and let Siken's words consume you—just like love itself.
