The Compass Dances is a collection of poems written from 1955 to 2015; the work of almost a lifetime. Influenced by the author's long absence from England, this strikingly original collection provides unique reflection on simultaneously writing in two languages, far away from the familiarity of home. With a nod to postmodernism, the process of authorial construction is left deliberately exposed. Asides and footnotes are used to signpost the reader and provide insight into the inspiration behind Pickering's writing. There are also many poems whose compelling inner force needs no explanation, appearing to have sprung fully formed from the mind of their creator. Included in the collection is 'Cosmos', a long poem for dramatic performance, which has been described by a producer as 'a remarkable juxtaposition of the mythologies of various traditional cultures with the scientific story of the Cosmos, which is powerfully emotive'. Michael's familiarity with more complex languages than English (notably Finnish) and, paradoxically, simpler (notably Italian) makes The Compass Dances a unique collection that will appeal to all poetry lovers.