Under Shadows of Stars

In these poems, Annie Bien does what so few poets are able to do-to tell stories while never being prosaic. There is warmth here, and a simplicity that is never simple. You want to read these poems quickly, almost as one would a novel, but when you slow down each line strikes you for its muscularity, its strength of lyricism, its wonder. Kei Miller, poet and author, Augustown These poems-stylistically very varied-share a rich and compassionate observation of personal and larger history. The poems brim with humour and tenderness for the particulars of life and lives, cherished and sometimes mourned. Illuminating the whole collection is a Buddhist philosophy that is never crudely imposed but permits a wide and gentle view. Elizabeth Cook, poet and author, Achilles Annie Bien's poems are evocative and deeply personal, touching upon themes common to the human condition, of love, loss, family, childhood, and place. Her study of Buddhist philosophy, in particular the concept of emptiness and the illusion-like nature of ultimate reality, have influenced Annie both explicitly (citing and using lines from the famous Samadhiraja Sutra) and implicitly, enabling her to reframe and read afresh life experiences in the context of the agency and freedom such a vast view affords. This is very inspiring. I highly recommend this book of poems. Geshe Dorji Damdul, Tibet House New Delhi