Let It Die Hungry

Disappointing. I ordered it after she was featured by a Buddhist publication and the title seemed wise. Instead...not so very.

Full disclosure: I know Caits Meissner and have collaborated with her on projects. At the same time, I chose to be as honest and impartial as possible with this review.Let It Die Hungry is a book of moving and ambitious poems. Meissner explores every fold of self, in a kind of dizzying ritual of language and metaphor. Common themes are sexuality, womanhood, depression and displacement, all of which are contrasted by Meissner’s compelling vigor, her willingness to dig through all of it in hopes of unearthing some kind of truth. It’s poetry though it doesn’t always look like it. In addition to the poems, the book features illustrations, comics, illustrated poems, and writing prompts. If you’re familiar with Meissner’s work, you know that these forms are all within her mode of expression and they feel at home in Let It Die Hungry.In some ways, this is a book for the initiated, the many women who I know relate to Meissner’s point of view and the poets and readers who know Meissner’s work and enjoy watching this talented poet continue develop her craft. At the same time, new readers would absolutely find work that speaks to them and perhaps even a new poet to call kin.

Let It Die Hungry isn’t an “ordinary” book of poems. The book contains text-only works that are supplemented by poems with visuals––drawings and poems with comic book layouts––as well as writing prompts for the would-be writer. I found myself carrying the book in my bag for weeks after first reading it: it is creatively nourishing and a trustworthy imaginative companion. I’d recommend for any reader interested in hybrid forms of poetry (poetry comics, Instagram poetry, etc.) as well as those who want their books to talk back.

I absolutely love this book. It's a combination of poetry, observations, artwork and writing prompts. It really brings the reader in and had me engaged from the start. The writing prompts had me thinking deeply and got me writing - something I've been wanting to make a regular practice of but haven't actually done. The poems are sensual, profound and deeply human - Caits is an excellent writer - and I was moved to tears by some of her work. I plan to purchase this for some of my family and friends. I highly recommend this book!

Meissner melds her craft of creative writing, with her passion for education, and her commitment to the dignity and honor of incarcerated friends, students, and community members. Her freedom to dance throughout her many worlds, many genres, and many loves models a new way of being for artists, activists, and educators.This is a gift.

I love this book! It is an archetypal journey through the love and mess and heart of a brave poet. I also appreciate the illustrations - they remind me of Jung's Red Book drawings - the chthonic musings of an artist in process. Great lesson plans, too, for anyone bringing poetry into the lives of others. Well done!

Gorgeous piece of work. Will read again and again and again. This book is an inspiration for what books can do and what literature should be in the world.

Let It Die Hungry is so much more than a traditional book of poetry. I especially love the illustrations and syllabus suggestions!