Poem of the week: This Year Her Present by Victoria Melkovska
Briefly

The poem reflects on the narrator's evolving relationship with gifts from a loved one, moving from cherished tokens to a somber present—a bottle of iodine, evoking fears of radiation due to nuclear threats. The text connects to the current anthology of Irish women's poetry, 'Washing Windows V,' celebrating 50 years of Arlen House, Ireland's first feminist press. It honors established poets and highlights emerging voices, encapsulating the ongoing dialogue about women's contributions to literature amid societal changes and challenges.
This year her present was a brown bottle of Lugol iodine to swallow when the heavy air wears a radiation halo at the edge of nuclear war.
The anthology's series title has a significant founding story, celebrating women's talent in poetry, as showcased by the influential Eavan Boland.
This current collection celebrates the 50th anniversary of Arlen House, Ireland's first feminist press, showcasing new poetry from over 300 talented women.
The representation spans familiar poets and emerging voices, reflecting the rich tapestry of contemporary Irish women's poetry.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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