Nobody

Nobody by Alice Oswald, published in 2019, is an electrifying book-length poem that has garnered the prestigious London Hellenic Prize. In this captivating work, Oswald masterfully weaves a collage of water-stories primarily inspired by the Odyssey, focusing on a minor character left isolated on a desolate island. Rather than a straightforward translation, Oswald offers a profound exploration of the sea that envelops this character, inviting readers to dive into a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion. The poem features multiple voices, yet intentionally avoids proper names, allowing the presiding spirit of Proteus, the shape-shifting sea god, to guide the narrative. With 88 pages of lyrical brilliance, Nobody showcases Alice Oswald at the height of her creative powers. This thought-provoking piece is a must-read for lovers of English literature and poetry enthusiasts alike.