Description

Tanya Nightingale has taken her poems from Edinburgh to Rome, though she is mainly heard at events and festivals in and around Yorkshire where her quiet but erudite poems make compelling listening.

From fractured fairy tales to a Chilean mine disaster; from Edwardian folk magic to earthquakes and war zones; Tanya transports us to different dimensions. This volume gathers published and prize-winning poems and adds many more, along with short fictions that are by turns startling and hilarious. You only think you hold her debut collection: you actually clutch dozens of alternate realities, and sharp moments of clear-eyed analysis.

“Tanya Nightingale’s poems are perfectly formed, well thought out, singing diamonds that you will want to come back to, many times.  This is a uniquely honest and truthful, intelligent voice unafraid to tackle issues of everyday relationships as well as Shakespeare inspired pieces, Keats inspired words, Mrs. Cratchit’s Christmas, and the Mystery Plays.  There is a lyricism here and an encapsulation of the minutiae of life that is rarely found in today’s poetry.  You will want to slip this book in your pocket as a compass of hope to guide you on your travels.  Long may these diamonds be unbreakable.” ~ Helen Burke, Poet and Artist