"[When we read and write poetry,] it is as if a long-settled cloud in our mind suddenly dissipates, and we are divine once again."-- from the Introduction

Poetry is the language of devotion in prayer, chant, and song. Reading and writing poetry creates clarity, deepens and expands spiritual inquiry, and cultivates wisdom, compassion, self-confidence, patience, and love. In author Robert McDowell's words, poetry makes you into a tuning fork o... read more>>>

The wonderful picture-poems of Kenneth Patchen, long out of print, are being brought back into one generous volume—cryptic creatures quipping quirky quotes and all.

The singular work of Kenneth Patchen has influenced poets, artists and political activists for decades. New Directions is proud to launch a Patchen revival beginning with omnibus editions of his unique compositions.

Kenneth Patchen's last words to New Directions f... read more>>>

A contemplative, witty new collection from a "jewel of a poet" (Los Angeles Times).

In Elizabeth Spires's sixth collection of poetry, the pilgrim soul, in its various guises, meditates on its own slow becoming, finding humble companions in creatures as unlikely as a lowly snail, a prehistoric coelacanth, or a tiny Japanese netsuke of a badger disguised as a monk. For Spires, life is both a pilgrimage and a deepening—birth, de... read more>>>