A poignant exploration of Ethiopian life, culture, and identity through evocative poetry.From Chris Beckett, co-editor ofSongs We Learn from Trees, comesTenderfoot, a collection delving into the heart of Ethiopia. These poems explore themes of growing up in a land marked by hunger, navigating cultural identity, and finding moments of hope amidst hardship. Beckett's work offers a unique lens on the human experience, blending personal reflection with social commentary.
Tenderfootinvites readers to witness the resilience of the Ethiopian people, the beauty of its landscapes, and the complexities of its cultural traditions. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion, Beckett captures the essence of a nation and its people, offering a powerful and moving reading experience. Perfect for poetry lovers, those interested in Ethiopian culture, and readers seeking diverse perspectives on the world.
Chris Beckettwas born in London but grew up in Ethiopia. His second collection of poems,Ethiopia Boy, was published by Carcanet/Oxford Poets in 2013.Sketches from the Poem Road, a collaboration with Japanese artist Isao Miura, was shortlisted for the Ted Hughes Award 2015. His translations (with Alemu Tebeje and others) have been published inModern Poetry in Translation, PN Review, The Missing Slate, andAsymptote Journal. With Gale Burns, he co-hosts The Shuffle reading series in Covent Garden. He is a trustee of the Anglo-Ethiopian Society and the Poetry Society.
Continues from previous collection, Ethiopia Boy, and explores hunger and inequality in the context of a white boy growing up in 1960s Ethiopia.