Marty Gervais
The Shape of Disappearing Letters
“These poems convey vividly what it feels like to slowly lose the sense of sight, and yet with that fading vision also comes new perceptions to celebrate.”
— Robert Hilles, Governor General’s Award–winning poet and author of 23 books of poetry and fiction
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Marty Gervais is one of Canada’s most distinguished and enduring literary figures. A poet, journalist, teacher, editor, publisher, fiction writer, and photographer, he has shaped the country’s literary and cultural landscape for decades. The Shape of Disappearing Letters, his newest collection of poetry, further solidifies the depth and range of his literary legacy.
In this deeply moving book, Gervais transforms failing eyesight into a source of astonishing clarity. As the poet writes, “These poems were composed during the rapid progression of age-related macular degeneration and document the shifting borders of a world growing softer, stranger—and unexpectedly more wondrous.”
“Gervais is a natural storyteller, and in The Shape of Disappearing Letters he shares his determination to convey the wonder and challenges of life despite the decline of his physical vision. But as Milton knew, failing sight not only broadens poetic vision but expands the spectrum of a poet’s humanity and passion for the wonder of life.”
— Bruce Meyer, Canadian poet, broadcaster, educator, and author of more than 64 books of poetry, short fiction, and nonfiction
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MARTY GERVAIS is a celebrated Canadian poet, journalist, editor, and publisher whose work has shaped the country’s literary landscape. Born in Windsor, Ontario, he is the founder of Black Moss Press and has published widely across poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and photography. He was Windsor’s first Poet Laureate and has received numerous literary and journalism awards for his contributions to Canadian culture.
ISBN: 9781771619004
Paperback
94 pages