Yes, RS Merwin is a significant North American poet (US Laureate 2010-2011) who managed to combine a Zen sensibility, acute observation and existential reflection.
His work migrated from a complex style to a simple focused style, much in the same way as Louise Glück (US Laureate (2003 - 2004). On the face of it, it looks easy to emulate; but, it is not because everything is focussed on the precise use of the line break to regulate the meaning, flow and pace of the poem.
Didn't know about Merwin- thanks- am envious of his passing, at home, in old age, in a place called Haiku, where he had planted an extraordinary tree collection!
Yes, RS Merwin is a significant North American poet (US Laureate 2010-2011) who managed to combine a Zen sensibility, acute observation and existential reflection.
His work migrated from a complex style to a simple focused style, much in the same way as Louise Glück (US Laureate (2003 - 2004). On the face of it, it looks easy to emulate; but, it is not because everything is focussed on the precise use of the line break to regulate the meaning, flow and pace of the poem.
Didn't know about Merwin- thanks- am envious of his passing, at home, in old age, in a place called Haiku, where he had planted an extraordinary tree collection!