Life in the Suburbs, by Mike Alfred (used)

‘Mike Alfred's poetic voice seems quiet and matter-of-fact, with the irony of resignation, but this is a deceptive effect, a by-product of his reflectiveness, sympathetic balance and stylistic control. In fact, to read this exceptionally rewarding collection is to be stirred in a range of different ways. He engages sometimes by his accurate, affectionate capturing of the familiar; sometimes by his satire of ridiculous or vicious practices; sometimes by his apprehension of everyday menace.

Sometimes his witty playfulness leads to laughter or penetrating reflection. Sometimes he simply celebrates the magic of a place that has delighted him; or he shares his contemplative awe at the magnificence of a setting and the mystery of its associations. Giving form to his tender feelings for certain individuals, he makes their qualities accessible to us for recognition and participation. In paying tribute to writers he admires he produces persuasive crystallizations of the human values he believes in. These, with his compassion and rueful self-questioning, produce poignant articulations of the moral predicaments of our era and country. Behind this rich variety of particular achievements,, the often deeply hidden, vivifying force is a special authenticity of passion. If Mike Alfred speaks movingly and entertainingly for many of us, it is because in the first place he speaks searchingly for himself.’

—Lionel Abrahams

condition: very good