Essential Poets (Ecco)

1 primary work • 2 total works

What If Zen Gardens

by Henry Beissel

Published 1 September 2017

In What If Zen Gardens, Henry Beissel, often considered the master of the long poem, turns to the time-honoured tradition of the haiku to help bring to light what he calls "the world's hidden affairs." Included in the collection are a series of black-and-white illustrations by Arlette Francière, themselves polished gems that highlight, reflect and enhance the poems.

When Africa Calls Uhuru

by Henry Beissel

Published 1 June 2023

When Africa Calls Uhuru is a dramatic poem in search of what it means to be human. Henry Beissel takes the reader to the Rift Valley in Kenya where it is believed the evolution of Homo sapiens largely took place. The narrative unfolds in a dialogue between nature, science and history, three voices that evoke the fauna and flora of Africa and conjure up the history of its colonization. Ultimately, the poem celebrates today's liberation of the 'dark' continent, arguing that since all humanity was born there, all people are brothers and sisters, whatever the colour of their skin. "Dance, my beloved / Africa," the poet rejoices, "you are free / to choose freedom now!"