Jackie Kay's new collection is a lyric counterpart to her memoir, Red Dust Road, the extraordinary story of the search for her Nigerian and Highland birth-parents; but it is also a moving book in its own right, and a deep enquiry into all forms of human friendship. Fiere - Scots for 'companion, friend, equal' - is a vivid description of the many paths our lives take, and of how those journeys are made meaningful by our companions on the road: lovers, friends, parents, children, mentors - as well as all the remarkable and chance acquaintances we would not otherwise have made. Written with Kay's trademark wit and flair, and infused with both Scots and Igbo speech, it is also a fascinating account of the formation of a self-identity - and the discovery of a tongue that best honours it. Musical and moving, funny and profound, Fiere is Jackie Kay's most accomplished, assured and ambitious collection of poems to date.
Jackie Kay
Jackie Kay is a Scottish poet, playwright, and novelist known for her exploration of identity, race, and sexuality in her works. Her most notable works include the poetry collections "The Adoption Papers" and "Fiere," as well as the novel "Trumpet," which won the Guardian Fiction Prize. Kay's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, humor, and lyrical language. She has made significant contributions to literature by giving voice to marginalized communities and challenging traditional notions of identity and belonging. Kay's impact on the literary genre is evident in her ability to blend personal experiences with broader social issues, creating a rich and nuanced portrayal of human existence. Her most famous work, "Trumpet," is a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of identity.