I wasn't altogether sure what to expect here but i warmed up fast. I'm not familiar enough with Ondaatje these are his selected poems and I was amazed I had a fantastic time. MO is highly influenced by Wallace Stevens - he wears that influence on his sleeve and transforms it as in King Kong Meets Wallace Stevens or in the kind of remarkably-conceived poem Dates which is one of those that leaves me wondering how somebody comes up with something like that in the first place.
Love the love and its troubles in Bearhug. Short poems paint scenes very well I'm reminded of Kathleen Jamie's talent for that. Also the title poem here is one of the finest erotic poems of the late 20th century. If I have a complaint it's that dogs keep dying in these poems and I think Michael treats that just as he should every time it comes up but my word. Extended responses to Pound too which is always points. Application for a Driving License floored me now That's a poem to keep
Read the unspooling Elimination Dance too it's sharp

So many of these I think deserve screaming from rooftops or stamping into walls. I think basically nobody in the UK talks about these though which is a huge shame! it would benefit! thank you so much Willow for the rec it was successful

In real life
men talk about art
women judge men

what i really like about these set of poems is that some of them are really personalities and glimpse of the author himself and some of his hobbies and aspirations in life. I am not a very deep thinker on literature such a poems, which i know have deeper meanings, i did appreciate the clarity and humour of some of these stanzas which i find metaphorically intriguing, but nevertheless i just gave it a 3 stars because i was not able to technically digest fully the intent and meaning of these metaphors, which only a honed and seasoned poet and reader can appreciate, but i was inspired to write a poem as a means of expressing myself in the genre, here goes:
The Cinnamon Peeler, oh what great metaphor
is there really such a thing, as complex as this
I could be a banana peeler, which is easier i supposed
the delicious fleshy fruit, is all i heed for
Now my mind has come to terms, with all things beautiful
Such personal qualms and happiness, that the author introduced
I was not ready at first, with all deviance to like
But i put my best foot forward, to savour every moment
All triumphs of the mind and spirit, that Michael has to offer.

This is a definitive book of poetry by a man most known as a novelist. So many of Ondaatje's best novels were born in his poetry, and it is still the best expression of his love of language and obsession with loyalty. This book is an excellent addition to any collection, if only for the title poem.

more later

Some good poems, but most slackly written, prosy. The title poem is excellent.

The Cinnamon Peeler is one of the best poems of all time. The other poems are good, but pale in comparison.

This slim book is a gift from Marie Cameron.

I love those Books for Amazon with Everybody else is reading cause I love it.

Some really good poems, evoking scenes, memories of other peoples lives. Collected over 25 years, it's a best of collection, and there's some really good stuff in there. The titular poem is very sensual.

Picked it up after a friend made me read "The Cinnamon Peeler's Wife". She said it was her favourite poem and she did not share that information with many people. I was fascinated by the poem and so I read the book. I have found Ondaatje's writing to be as my sister described - impressive. He has a knack with language and it's something one can only dream about. You either have it or you don't.

This collection is another that I return to time and again for inspiration.

I was lucky enough to see Ondaatje ready from this and Anhil's Ghost an number of years ago. One of the most amazing experiences. Vivid imagery, words that roll off the tongue - one to read aloud to with that special someone. This autographed book of poetry is one of my treasurers.