Elaine Feinstein’s Poetry: an Austere Art?

Abstract

‘Elaine Feinstein’s Poetry: An Austere Art’ analyzes and interprets Feinstein’s verse. The methodology is that of neo-formalist technical analysis. Technical features identifi ed are: a largely informal language; free verse; avoidance of rhyme; and use of enjambment. It is an art that denies artfulness. Thematic aspects identifi ed are: a focus on the quotidian, family, and displacement; myth; and specifi cally Jewish subjects. An interest in women’s issues is also apparent throughout. Detailed discussion of poems from diff erent parts of Feinstein’s oeuvre provides evidence for the above.

Keywords

• elaine feinstein; poetic technique; anglo-jewish poetry