Field – Fall 2003

A section of this issue of Field is dedicated to pieces in tribute to and discussion of James Wright, the poet who, among many literary achievements, brought to life the tragic and desolate landscapes of Martins Ferry, Ohio.

A section of this issue of Field is dedicated to pieces in tribute to and discussion of James Wright, the poet who, among many literary achievements, brought to life the tragic and desolate landscapes of Martins Ferry, Ohio. I was particularly interested in Bruce Beasley’s “Feeding the Glass Swan: James Wright’s Lyric Antilyricism,” which discusses how Wright’s Midwestern linguistic heritage influenced his work. I always enjoy the poetry in Field, and this issue is no exception. Grace Paley, an acknowledged master of the short story form, contributed two poems of amazing strength, including the haunting and nuanced “Story.” Carol Potter’s “Comfort Zone” will surprise readers with its familiarity and insight. Here are some lines from the poem, difficult to excerpt, but rewarding: “Who meant to stay here this long? Anywhere. This job. This / comfort zone…Who thought we could live this long? Get this worried? Be this // stupid. Go square like this…” The poems in this issue have a bit of a melancholy tang, completely appropriate for the fall season, and the examination of Wright’s work inspired me to re-read his work with renewed enthusiasm. [Field, Oberlin College Press, 10 North Professor Street, Oberlin, OH 44074. E-mail: [email protected]. Single issue $7. www.oberlin.edu/ocpress] – JHG