Trembling in the Bones

Once upon a time I was privileged to be Eleanor Swanson's student. At the time, I really did not realize what an honor that was. She is a fine teacher, to be sure, but I only knew her through that “teacher” lens. It wasn't until after university that I discovered her as a writer

Trembling in the Bones has just been re-released in memory of the 100th anniversary of the Ludlow Massacre. I would never have known about the event if not for my then professor's interest. I am not especially interested in history and certainly don't make a habit of reading sad things. So take it from me when I say even if you don't like history, poetry, or sad stories, you should still read this book.

Swanson's poetry is magnificent in its own right. She has a talent with language that will haunt readers long after they put this book down. Every poem captures a setting, a character, a storm of emotion, and so much more in just a few hundred words. She recreates Ludlow and the events leading up to and following the tragedy with honesty and feeling.

I like to write long reviews, but I don't think I'll do the poems justice by rambling any further. Just read this book.