Title
The Elements of San Joaquin (Pitt Poetry (Paperback)),Used
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Expanded from the awardwinning Chicano poet's 1977 original, this poetry collection explores the hardships and joys of migrant workers in California.A timely new edition of a pioneering work in Latino literature, National Book Awardnominee Gary Soto's first collection (originally published in 1977) draws on California's fertile San Joaquin Valley, the people, the place, and the hard agricultural work done there by immigrants. In these poems, joy and anger, violence and hope are placed in both the metaphorical and very real circumstances of the Valley. Rooted in personal experiencesof the poet as a young man, his friends, family, and neighborsthe poems are spare but expansive, with Soto's voice as important as ever. This welcome new edition has been expanded with a crucial selection of complementary poems (some previously unpublished) and a new introduction by the author.Praise for The Elements of San Joaquin'A response to the charged, ideologically defiant voices from the seventies, The Elements of San Joaquin forever changed the course of Latino literature, redirecting us toward the mundane and ephemeral. The poet's only commitment, Gary Soto seemed to suggest, is to life itself. His teacher and role model was Philip Levine, who encouraged him to see his own neighborhood, indeed his own backyard, as a kingdom. The result was a type of poetry that weathered inclement times in ways that scores of other instant 'hits' couldn't. It was new yet as old as the Bible and it still is. The word 'classic' is overused these days. Not in this case.' Ilan Stavans, LewisSebring Professor in the Humanities, Latin American and Latino Culture at Amherst College, and general editor of The Norton Anthology of Latino Literature'In the original The Elements of San Joaquin , Gary Soto defined the Chicano character as an underrepresented part of the American whole, the identity that would serve as foundation for my life's work. My parents and grandparents had crossed borders, but Soto rooted me, us, herein the daily poverty of mejicano vecindadeson all those rural 'Braly Streets' of Fresno, Brawley, and Salinas. His elements of sun, wind, stars, and field shadowed my own destiny to bring justice there, to the people of the hoe and harvest.' Jos? Padilla, Executive Director of California Rural Legal Assistance
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has fifty-six pages. This includes a collection of poems that delve into the experiences of migrant workers in California.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: This book is paperback bound. Paperback binding is lightweight and flexible, making it easy to carry and read.
- Q: Who is the author of The Elements of San Joaquin? A: The author is Gary Soto. He is an award-winning Chicano poet known for his contributions to Latino literature.
- Q: What themes are explored in this poetry collection? A: Themes of hardship, joy, and the immigrant experience are explored. The poems reflect the realities of life in California's San Joaquin Valley.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: Yes, it is suitable for young readers. The poetry addresses important social issues in a thoughtful and accessible manner.
- Q: What age group is this book appropriate for? A: This book is appropriate for readers aged twelve and up. Its themes of resilience and identity resonate with adolescents and adults alike.
- Q: How should I store this paperback book? A: Store it in a cool, dry place. Keeping it away from direct sunlight will help preserve the cover and pages.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft cloth. Avoid using liquids, as they may damage the pages.
- Q: What is the shelf life of this book? A: The book does not have a specific shelf life. Properly stored, it can be enjoyed for many years.
- Q: Is this book a good introduction to Latino literature? A: Yes, it is an excellent introduction. The collection is considered a pioneering work in the genre and showcases significant cultural themes.
- Q: How does this book compare to other poetry collections? A: This book stands out due to its focus on the Chicano experience. It provides a unique perspective compared to mainstream poetry collections.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: You can return the book if it arrives damaged. Check the return policy for specific instructions on how to proceed.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, there is no warranty for books. However, you can typically return it if it is defective.
- Q: What should I do if I lose my copy? A: You may purchase another copy. It's available from various retailers, including online bookstores.
- Q: Can I find additional poems in this edition? A: Yes, this edition includes previously unpublished poems. It offers a broader selection of Soto's work than the original.