Strong Words #2

Discover the rich tapestry of contemporary essays with 'Strong Words #2', a compelling anthology that features the long-listed entries from the prestigious 2019 and 2020 Landfall essay competitions. Curated by acclaimed editor Emma Neale, this paperback collection (165 x 215 mm, 184 pages) presents a diverse array of voices, from established authors to emerging talents, each offering unique insights that resonate deeply with readers. Delve into the thought-provoking themes woven throughout these essays, such as Sarah Harpur's humorous yet profound take on mortality, Siobhan Harvey's poignant reflections on childhood trauma ignited by home renovations, and Tan Tuck Ming's exploration of technology's role in modern intimacy. 'Strong Words #2' doesn't shy away from challenging topics; it includes the joint winners of the 2019 essay prize, Tobias Buck’s 'Exit. Stage Left', which bravely confronts prejudice and bias through personal narrative, and Nina Mingya Powles’ 'Tender Gardens', a meditation on Chinese heritage and belonging in an alien landscape. This anthology not only showcases outstanding literary craftsmanship but also serves as a lens through which to view pressing social issues, personal struggles, and the beauty of human connection. Perfect for readers who appreciate powerful storytelling and the art of essay writing, 'Strong Words #2' is a must-have addition to your literary collection. Buy now to dive into a world of vivid prose and enlightening concepts.

Author: Emma Neale Publisher: Otago University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 165 x 215 mm
Pages: 184
Publication Date: 01-06-2021

Strong Words #2 showcases the long-listed entries for the 2019 and 2020 Landfall essay competitions. The contents, often poetic and psychologically insightful, gave editor Emma Neale a ‘hell of an intriguingly hard time’ deciding which sparkling explorations would knock off the others for the top three places in each year. This anthology gives readers a chance to sample the high quality work entered, without the agony of having to choose the winners. Including well-known names and promising newcomers, the contents roam far and wide over a number of subjects, such as Sarah Harpur’s irreverent, laugh-aloud essay about death; Siobhan Harvey’s potent essay about the memories of an abusive childhood stirred up by current house renovations; and Tan Tuck Ming’s essay about technology and how it mediates, enables and impacts intimate relationships. Strong Words #2 also includes the joint winners of the 2019 essay prize: Tobias Buck’s ‘Exit. Stage Left’, which explores issues of prejudice and bias through the experience of someone ‘the colour of cotton candy or pink marshmallows’, and Nina Mingya Powles’ work ‘Tender Gardens’, exploring Chinese cultural and poetic heritage and how to maintain a sense of home in a foreign land.