In her essay “A Consideration of Poetry,” Kay Ryan emphasizes the importance of precision in writing, stating that “We just feel that something precise is something important.” Atsuro Riley, one of today’s most prominent poets, exemplifies this precision in his work. His latest collection, “Heard-Hoard,” published in 2021, showcases his meticulous language, finely crafted syntax, and deep connection to rural speech. This attention to detail has earned Riley prestigious awards such as the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Similar to Riley’s acclaimed debut collection, “Romey’s Order” (2010), “Heard-Hoard” revolves around evoking a sense of place and its inhabitants. Riley brings to life the characters from his upbringing in the lowlands of South Carolina, crafting a world that is both vivid and authentic. By weaving lines from renowned poets like Emily Dickinson, Elizabeth Bishop, Gerard Manley Hopkins, and Seamus Heaney with the vernacular of his childhood, Riley constructs a tangible setting that resonates with readers. His use of vivid imagery paints a picture of a unique landscape teeming with danger and beauty, populated by a variety of creatures including snakes that symbolize the harsh realities depicted in his poems.
“Heard-Hoard” delves into what Riley has heard, read, and carefully selected from the vast reservoir of language available to him. The title references the roots of the English language, the natural speech of rural communities, and the eloquently fractured English spoken by Riley’s Japanese mother. His deliberate use of hyphenated words pays homage to his linguistic heritage, showcasing the intricate tapestry of words that reflects both the power and limitations of language. Throughout the collection, Riley employs compound terms that are meticulously modified as he searches for the precise word, even if it has not been coined yet.
Riley’s work in “Heard-Hoard” not only involves capturing the world through writing but also revolves around the act of listening. These two aspects of poetry are intertwined in Riley’s creative process. The collection begins with “Crackler,” an “ars poetica,” which emphasizes the importance of words in illuminating hidden depths and shaping narratives. Through vibrant and emotive language, Riley brings to light the struggles of individuals affected by poverty and conflict, underscoring the power of poetry to bear witness to human experiences.
In poems like “Duet,” Riley explores the significance of finding an authentic voice, highlighting the essence of poetry as a means of self-expression and communication. The verses resonate with the idea that having a voice allows individuals to share their stories and connect with others. Through his evocative language and poignant imagery, Riley creates a world that is both starkly real and poignantly hopeful. His meticulous attention to detail and profound exploration of language make “Heard-Hoard” a compelling and deserving collection to revisit in light of his recent achievements as a poet.
