Overview

The ghetto and other poems is a striking collection capturing the vibrant yet challenging life in urban marginalized communities. The poems vividly depict the daily struggles faced by residents, focusing on themes such as identity, labor, and social justice. The title poem paints a powerful portrait of the ghetto's harsh realities, capturing both the physical environment and emotional depths of those living there. Through a range of voices and scenes, it illustrates the resilience and determination of individuals confronting hardship, including workers grappling with demanding jobs and children finding moments of joy amid adversity. The collection interweaves personal reflections with broader societal critiques, highlighting the fight for dignity and recognition in a world marked by oppression. Amid the grim realities, an underlying spirit of hope and ambition shines through, emphasizing the enduring human drive for a better life and social progress. Ridge's poetic language combines directness with rich imagery, making this an evocative and socially conscious work that confronts pressing issues while celebrating human endurance.

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9789374832356

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Lola Ridge was an Irish-born New Zealand-American poet, editor, and activist whose work bridged art and social consciousness. Born on December 12, 1873, in Dublin, Ireland, to Emma Ridge, she spent much of her life between New Zealand and the United States, where she became a prominent figure in literary and political circles. Deeply engaged with issues of social justice, Ridge's poetry reflected her commitment to anarchist and feminist ideals, often voicing empathy for the marginalized and oppressed. She published five major poetry collections and contributed to avant-garde magazines that championed modernist experimentation and political reform. Her writing combined lyrical expression with a sharp awareness of class struggle and personal freedom. Associated with the Greenwich Village literary movement, Ridge became an influential editor and mentor to younger writers. She received both the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Shelley Memorial Award for her contributions to poetry. Ridge died on May 19, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers dedicated to art's power to challenge and transform society.

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