Poems 1930-1989

This is the most complete collection of Samuel Beckett's poetry yet to appear, containing much previously uncollected work - both in English and in French. This is the most complete collection of Samuel Beckett's poetry yet to appear, containing much previously uncollected work - both in English and in French. As well as late work written after 1978 - when the last volume was published - there is also a section of early poems, probably all written before 1930 - when the author was a young man. This volume illustrates the many stages in the development of Beckett's style - from his modernist early work - thick with allusions and references from his readings and studies - to the simpler and very moving post-war poems - many of which have become much loved and quoted, and many set as songs by numerous composers. The Beckettian preocupations, with their inherent protest at the tragedy of the human condition, are all present here, as is the author's humour and his attitudes to love, friendship, loss and tragedy. Some of the most lyrical poems take the form of beautiful philosophical musings. Beckett wrote poems both in English and in French. Both are included here, together with his own translations when he made them. There are English versions of famous poems by major twentieth century French poets - including Rimbaud and Eluard - together with the original texts. The 'Mirlitonnades' or 'Bird Calls' - short, aphoristic and very pointed - have been extended since the last collection.