Weekly Poem: Jessica Traynor's Work During the Time of Genocide
Jessica Traynor, an esteemed Irish poet and author, has once again made waves in the literary world with her latest publication, the poetry collection "Pit Lullabies." Published by Bloodaxe Books in 2022, this collection has been well-received by critics and readers alike.
Traynor, who is also the poetry editor at Banshee Press, has previously authored two novels, Tennis Lessons (2020) and Common, and three critically acclaimed books of poetry.
One of the standout poems from "Pit Lullabies" is titled "During The Genocide." Originally published in the collection "Washing Windows V: Women Revolutionise Irish Poetry," 1975-2025 from Arlen House, this powerful piece has garnered significant attention.
The poem revolves around a mother who is impatient and shouts at her kids. In her dreams, soldiers have come to kill children in a school. The mother asks her dream soldiers to wait until she has all her children in her arms and to kill them before her. The poem describes a feeling that won't stop clinging and pushing, with desperate fingers into the body.
In the poem, the mother recalls feeling numb when swimming in the North Sea as a child, a sensation she seems to be seeking in her actions within the poem. The title, "During The Genocide," provides a stark contrast to the personal and intimate nature of the poem's content.
Notably, "Pit Lullabies" has been designated as "Our Poem Of The Week," further highlighting its significance in the literary scene. The collection has been lauded for its raw and emotional portrayal of human experiences, making it a must-read for poetry enthusiasts.
Jessica Traynor's latest publication, "Pit Lullabies," not only sheds light on her versatile talent in poetry but also extends into her interests in various aspects of life. A critic might appreciate this collection's exploration of 'lifestyle' themes, such as the powerful poem "During The Genocide," which delves into the intimate world of 'relationships' and the human psyche.
Traynor, an avid reader, also seems to be interested in 'fashion-and-beauty,' as seen in her vivid descriptions of a mother's dreamlike scenario. One can envision these imagery being showcased in a high-end 'shopping' catalog, with compelling 'food-and-drink' pairings to complete the tableau.
Perhaps her collection is an ode to 'homes-and-gardens,' where such stories unfold. It is intriguing to think about her resonating with readers who may have experienced similar emotions while reminiscing about their own homes.
Lastly, the title "Pit Lullabies" could suggest a travel narrative, with the poems serving as memorable songs inspired by her trips and adventures. As a car enthusiast, it would be interesting to speculate how her thoughts on automobiles influence her literary journeys and her unique poetic voice.
