Nanaimo poet Ian Cognitō explores the animal kingdom in his new book, Animalian. This collection, published by Repartee Press, is a condensed version of his 2021 book, Animusings, and includes new poems.
Cognitō explains that he continues to write animal-themed poetry. “I couldn’t stop ‘Animusing,’ and I still have many animal-themed poems in me. This collection gives some of these newer poems a home,” he said. He describes Animalian as a series of poems inspired by animals that also reflect on human nature and our connection to the natural world.
Cognitō finds inspiration in observing animals and being in nature. Some poems are observational, while others use satire to encourage readers to reflect on their own lives. “There is a clarion call for us to pay attention to what’s happening around us and in nature,” he said. “It’s like the canary-in-the-mine analogy. We need to notice these things.”
He hopes readers will enjoy and connect with the poems. “I want them to be moved and to have a poetic experience centered on animals,” he added.
The collection features poems written over the past 30 years, including pieces composed as recently as this summer. Cognitō enjoyed curating his work for this new edition. “It’s a way of connecting with my younger self and seeing how my ideas have resonated over time,” he explained.
The book cover features a cartoon by 19th-century artist Faustin Betbeder, which depicts Charles Darwin as half-ape, showing a monkey its reflection. Cognitō believes this illustration captures the spirit of his book.
The book launch will take place at the Nanaimo Harbourfront branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library on November 2 from 2 to 4 PM. A second event is scheduled at the Parksville branch on November 9 at 2 PM.
Animalian can be purchased directly from Repartee Press or at locations such as Literacy Central Vancouver Island, the Nanaimo Art Gallery, the Ladysmith Art Gallery, and Windowseat Books.
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