Staff Pick: In Her Jaws by Rosamund Taylor

Rosamund Taylor's debut poetry collection is breathtaking. There is vigour and sensuality in these pages, a strength of lives lived underlying the ink. The poet took her time in putting together ‘In Her Jaws’, a labour of love and intellect.

I’m aware reviews can pigeon-hole a collection, especially one that defies conformist definitions. I’ll try to keep this short and simple.

The poems navigate powerful emotions in a sublime way. Her treatment of love and passion (well explored in poetry) is refreshingly different. More importantly, in these poems, queer love evolves from a realisation of self-love. 

Among all other poetic devices in play, for me the use of nature and natural elements is significant. It works as a foil to hold the space, is not treated as just another vehicle to deliver a message. 

I enjoyed reading this first collection, amazed at the poet's craftsmanship. One of the poems in this book is ‘The Proof’ which won the London Magazine Poetry Prize 2020. It’s a stunning piece of writing, both provocative and vulnerable, with a dash of strength in being herself. And in being with a person who loves her.

And now I’m in love with this collection.

Copies of 'In Her Jaws' is available in the libraries.

Sree Sen, Library Communications