Everlasting Quail (Bakeless Prize)

Rating:
Summary: Young Poet Dazzles the Senses
Review: Sam Witt's "Everlasting Quail" is a remarkable debut from a young poet who writes with a wisdom and sensitivity that is evident in every line. Although the poet's tenedency to complex allusion may confound readers used to the shopworn imagery of contemporary popular culture, Witt's endnotes explain his references in detail, and it is obvious that the allusions are not merely an exercise in overagressive erudition, but instead the product of a well-read and powerfully creative writer. The determined reader will find this slim volume of poems both intellectually rewarding and sensually stimulating. The poems are frustrating at times in their obscurity, yet more often than not ring with a clarity of thought and design that marks Witt as a gifted and promising poet. In addition, the book itself is beautifully designed and produced, featuring a front cover image taken from a painting by Witt's artist brother. Nepotism it isn't; the creative gift must run in the familial blood. I highly recommend this attractive and intense book.