David Swartz Knihy

Orpheu - Revista Trimestral de Literatura was published in 1915. The project was to be a quarterly magazine, the first issue corresponding to the months of January to March and the second from April to June. A third, of which proofs remain, due to lack of money to print it, was never completed or launched. The title is the result of a commitment to the symbolist tendency of Luís de Montalvor, who signed the introduction, and from the fact that among the collaborators there was a Brazilian poet, Ronald de Carvalho, who wanted the magazine to reach the public in Brazil.The translator notes that: "My translation of Orpheu is, for me, the key to an unknown door. The poems in Orpheu 1 & 2 are both feminized and masculinized. As a whole, they reveal a turn inwards towards a way of looking at oneself as the other, encapsulating the absent-present, feminine-masculine, nowhere-everywhere collision at the core not only of art but life itself. This unique and utterly enchanted poetic vision is centered, in my view, around the idea that Orpheus and his wife are one."

The narrative explores the journey of a deeply fragmented man who, escaping his troubled life marked by depression and fear, seeks solace in the hometown of an old friend associated with cannabis. This setting serves as an unexpected refuge amidst his struggles, highlighting themes of connection, healing, and the search for sanity in a harsh world. Through this unique premise, the story delves into the complexities of mental health and the impact of one's environment on personal recovery.

The introductory poems explore a dynamic interplay between raw, provocative language and poignant expressions of nostalgia and regret. This collection showcases a range of emotions, oscillating between wild scatology and delicate lyricism, creating a rich tapestry of human experience. The unique blend of fierce dialectic invites readers to engage deeply with the themes of memory and longing.

The long poem "Rothko" creatively distills 20 texts about the influential abstract expressionist artist into a dramatic monologue. It features a unique verse structure consisting of 33 sections, each containing 6 couplets of similar line lengths. Each section is introduced by a concise haiku-like quotation from three pivotal texts, enhancing the exploration of Rothko's complex legacy and artistic philosophy.

The title poem serves as a dramatic monologue, reflecting the themes and style found in the companion work "Rothko." This latest volume explores the intricate relationship between poetic expression and visual art, showcasing Swartz's unique approach to intertwining the lives and works of influential artists. Through 33 sections, it delves into the complexities of Crane's poetry, offering a profound exploration of creativity and artistic identity.

Exploring the intersection of darkness and the cosmos, this collection features two novellas and four one-act plays that deliver a mix of unsettling narratives and immediate emotional impact. Swartz's unique storytelling invites readers into a realm that is both captivating and disconcerting, challenging perceptions and evoking intense reactions. Each piece showcases his talent for blending the surreal with the profound, making for a thought-provoking reading experience.

The book features three dramatic poems that draw on quasi-Biblical themes, exploring the harshness of an ancient Creator and the resulting horror experienced by humanity. These dark and compelling narratives serve as a disturbing tribute to the complexities of faith and morality, challenging readers to confront unsettling truths that diverge from traditional teachings of the Old Testament. The work invites reflection on the nature of divine authority and human suffering.

The culmination of a master poet's journey, this volume showcases a profound exploration of personal truth amidst the mediocrity of contemporary works. It reflects on the struggles of artists who often measure themselves against their peers rather than aspiring to greatness. Through poignant verses, the poet confronts themes of ambition and authenticity, offering readers a unique perspective on the creative process and the challenges faced in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

The verses express profound metaphysical outrage and indignation, combining a formal style with an undercurrent of intense fury. This emotional intensity draws a parallel to Wilfred Owen's powerful critiques of World War I, highlighting the shared themes of suffering and disillusionment. The work captures the raw essence of human experience in the face of conflict, making a poignant statement about the impact of war on the human spirit.

Ambitious in scope and depth, this trilogy of dramas draws inspiration from ancient myth, paralleling the grandeur of Sophocles. It stands out as a significant work in modern literature, being the first since Milton's "Samson" to capture such evocative power and complexity. Each play within the trilogy explores profound themes and character dynamics, offering a fresh perspective on timeless narratives.