In this extraordinary epic poem, Anne Carson bridges the gap between classicism and the modern, poetry and prose, with a volcanic journey into the soul of a winged red monster named Geryon. There is a strong mixture of whimsy and sadness in Geryon's story. He is tormented as a boy by his brother, escapes to a parallel world of photography, and falls in love with Herakles - a golden young man who leaves Geryon at the peak of infatuation. Geryon retreats ever further into the world created by his camera, until that glass house is suddenly and irrevocably shattered by Herakles' return. Running throughout is Geryon's fascination with his wings, the colour red, and the fantastic accident of who he is. Autobiography of Red is a deceptively simple narrative layered with currents of meaning, emotion, and the truth about what it's like to be red. It is a powerful and unsettling story that moves, disturbs, and delights.
Anne Carson
Anne Carson is a Canadian poet, essayist, and translator known for her innovative and genre-defying work. She is best known for her collections of poetry, including "Autobiography of Red" and "The Beauty of the Husband," as well as her translations of ancient Greek texts such as "An Oresteia" and "If Not, Winter: Fragments of Sappho."
Carson's writing is characterized by its blend of classical mythology, personal narrative, and linguistic experimentation. Her work often challenges traditional notions of genre and form, pushing the boundaries of what poetry can be. Carson has been praised for her ability to create deeply emotional and intellectually stimulating work that defies easy categorization.
Carson has had a significant impact on contemporary literature, influencing a new generation of writers with her distinctive voice and innovative approach to storytelling. Her work has been celebrated for its lyrical beauty, intellectual rigor, and fearless exploration of complex themes such as love, loss, and desire.
One of Carson's most famous works is "Autobiography of Red," a novel-in-verse that reimagines the myth of the monster Geryon from Greek mythology. The book received widespread critical acclaim and solidified Carson's reputation as a leading voice in contemporary literature.
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