Paradise Piece by Piece

Peacock, Molly

ISBN 10: 1573221031 ISBN 13: 9781573221030

Publisher: Riverhead Hardcover, 1998

Synopsis

The president emerita of the Poetry Society of America explores her decision not to have children through an account of her growth as a poet and as a woman, and of the choices that have shaped her fate.

About this title

Review:

The author of four volumes of poetry, Molly Peacock proves she is equally adept at prose in this vividly graceful memoir. Some would say that Paradise, Piece by Piece is one more story of growing up in a dysfunctional family (alcoholic father, depressed mother, rebellious younger sister). Others would focus on Peacock's turbulent romantic life, while others still would place the emphasis on her decision to remain childless.

The truth of the matter is that all of these threads are vital components of a single, intricately woven tapestry, held together by Peacock's painstaking attention to detail. Anybody who has struggled to define his or her own life against the expectations and demands of others (be they society or one's own blood) will find inspiration in Molly Peacock's life.

From the Inside Flap:

You can ask that a book tell you a compelling story, that it dazzle you with vivid writing, that its emotional content be pure and stirring, that the issues it tackles be timely, relevant, and put forth with candour and a tonic dose of humour. Paradise, Piece by Piece is such a book.

Molly Peacock is an award-winning writer, and Paradise, Piece by Piece describes the coming of age of a poet and the flowering of her art. It is a self-portrait that speaks to the most intimate questions a woman can ask of herself and answers them with courageous introspection. It is the story of a child who had to grow up too soon; of the complicated web of relationships in which she, like all of us, defines herself ? loyal friends, quirky relations, and tempestuous lovers; of the lifelong labour of self-determination, and finding ultimate fulfilment.

Peacock?s language is emotionally charged, full of wit and dead-on accuracy. Her skill with narrative and character, her ability to write a vibrant scene, make her memoir as compelling as good fiction. Paradise, Piece by Piece is a virtuoso performance.

About this edition

• Publisher: Riverhead Hardcover
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 1573221031
• ISBN 13: 9781573221030
• Binding: Audio Cassette