Feasting on Freedom

Feasting on Freedom is the sophomore collection of poetry and prose from British writer Lucas de Kretser. Whereas his debut, A Stubborn Forest was lightly peppered with themes of forbidden love ('By the Water Gate'), dissatisfaction and aspirations of escape ('In from the Snow'), de Kretser's newest project fully delves into his own story. Freedom reaches into the depths of an abusive relationship, carefully drawing out details to be displayed in honest, oftentimes bleak, vignettes that contend with isolation and violence ('If I Don't Go Now'), and the struggle to maintain a sense of self ('Swimming in His Gut').
The demise of this relationship triggers a change of subject, as de Kretser sifts through memories of freedom to bring forth odes to first loves ('He Speaks'), and childhood friends ('The Severn'). Wrestling with abuse and the daunting task of rebuilding yourself in the aftermath is taxing, and so escapism comes in spades in the latter half of the book with tales of American actresses ('Este'), and even European Duchesses ('Elizabeth in Her Bath of Reeds'). The book closes with affirmations for the future; hopes for new love ('Something Beautiful'), and peaceful acceptance ('Still a Child').

Several pieces were previously published in Pandora's Inbox and Box, and The Drabble.

I will let my tangerines ripen
a little longer in the sun.
Let these suggestions of amber,
these whispers of citrine
drink in the sun
and grow ripe. Grow fat.
Grow.
- A Little Longer in the Sun

Author: Claudia Gambles

Publisher: Independently Published

Publication Date: Apr 29, 2022

Number of Pages: 78 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: NA

ISBN-13: 9798754203075