The songwriter’s poetry is a reminder that experiencing the profound is not the same as being able to communicate it
This book is as handsomely produced as its subjects are in dire straits. For those who associate poetry with slim volumes, think again: this is the size of a smallish coffee table, and many of its tremendous photographs are presented over double-page spreads. PJ Harvey, recently awarded an MBE for her contribution to music, makes her debut as a poet in collaboration with photographer and film-maker Seamus Murphy, who created a dozen short films for her album Let England Shake. An enigmatic artist, Harvey now seeks to penetrate the mystery of others with Murphy’s help. Together they have travelled to Kosovo, Afghanistan and Washington DC. There is no explanation given as to why this trio of places was chosen, beyond a quote in the accompanying publicity: “I wanted to smell the air, feel the soil and meet the people of the countries I was fascinated by.”
Related: On the road with PJ Harvey – in pictures
Related: PJ Harvey: 'I feel things deeply. I get angry'
Continue reading...
