Good Woman: Poems and a Memoir 1969-1980 (American Poets Continuum)

My favorite book, this is a must-have poetry collection for both poetry lovers and those who like to think but aren't comfortable with the density of some contemporary poetry. Clifton, as always, uses language that is accessible to craft situations real and vital to her readers. The section "Some Jesus" probes the emotions of plain folks faced with miracles; "Good Times" takes its own snapshots of family in days past; "I Agree with the Leaves" explores the curious and troubling realms of spirituality and the quest for "place" in the cosmos. Good Woman is a fine companion to Clifton's most recent book The Terrible Stories.