In his final book, the celebrated poet Fred Chappell reflects on life and the beyond. Details drawn from daily actions, religion, classical myth, and the Appalachian landscape adorn this autumnal collection that unearths connections both strong and tenuous among apparently disparate subjects, all percolated with Chappell’s signature wit and warm vision. A student’s observation that “Poems are how we see with our eyes closed” comes to resemble an icon of sorrow. A stairway to heaven ends with a jug of wine. Memories assume shifting appearances. Often written in traditional sonnet forms, Chappell’s poems display astonishing technical skill and indefatigable humanity as they gaze on the challenges of life and the great unknown.

A spirited and friendly farewell, Ever After shows an accomplished and much-beloved American writer gracing us with poems of remarkable originality, craft, and insight.