The Poetry of Asher Reich

Book excerpt: A rich union of image and word, this striking book introduces English-speaking audiences to a full range of poetry by Asher Reich, one of Israel’s most celebrated contemporary poets, paired with evocative drawings by renowned Israeli artist Michael Kovner. Yair Mazor, a leading scholar of Hebrew literature, provides readers with an introduction to Reich’s work and its prominent position within the panorama of modern literature in Hebrew. Asher Reich’s poetry has been characterized as vivid, vibrant, passionate, and expressionistic. Dominated by themes of stormy sensuality and frank sexuality, his dramatic imagery and metaphors interweave Mishnaic, Talmudic, and Biblical references in a colorful, complex poetic texture. The beautiful simplicity of Kovner’s drawings—depicting female figures and natural landscapes—resonates throughout the book. Tender, stark, and striking, the drawings illustrate life’s fragility and grace with a subtlety and dignity that complements Reich’s sensitive style. Presenting contemporary Hebrew poetry, modern Israeli art, and informed literary commentary in an engaging format, this book promises to delight a broad audience of readers.