Hinge & Sign: Poems, 1968-1993

Heather McHugh is a truly inspirational poet. I have just returned from hearing her read at the Getty Center in LA. What a marvelous experience. McHugh is a truly gifted manipulator of language, from its etemylogical roots, through its syntax, to its artful implimentation in finely wrought metaphors. She brazenly addresses plainly human issues -- sex, love, lust, pain, anger, joy, despair -- in terms that make them readily identifiable as the emotions you have felt but from a perspective slightly ajar to what you might have ever imagined. From hearing her speak, I can tell you she has an enviable mastery of the American language. My copy of "Hinge & Sign" is well worn from weeks of being my constant companion. I eagerly look forward to her new book.

Heather McHugh is one of the best living American poets, and this book shows you some of her finest pieces from the last 25 years. It also has a collection of new poems that both continue and deepen her earlier work.