Introduction to the Continuation of Delight
In ‘The Book of (More) Delights,’ poet and essayist Ross Gay extends the practice of recording everyday pleasures that distinguished his 2019 bestseller, ‘The Book of Delights.’ This follow-up collection of 81 essays, spanning a year, captures Gay’s evolved approach to cherishing the minutiae of daily life.
Guidelines for Finding Joy
Gay’s methodology for compiling these delights is straightforward yet profound: “write them daily, write them quickly, and write them by hand.” This practice has transformed into an exercise in ecstasy, fostering a spirit of gratitude and inquiry. Each essay is a snapshot of relished experience, providing a lens through which readers can see the world afresh.
Observations That Uncover Complexities
Gay’s latest enthusiasms, including yellow jackets, Snoopy, and paper menus, might appear simple at first glance. However, under his keen and observant eye, these subjects reveal arresting complexities. His precise and poetic imagery adds depth to everyday occurrences. For instance, he describes garlic sprouts as “little green periscopes” and a favorite spoon as having “a slight impression—as though touched by an angel—on the handle.”
Reflections on Life’s Nuances
Aside from capturing the essence of mundane delights, Gay’s essays delve into more profound themes such as aging, relationships, and the passage of time. His reflections are both heartening and thought-provoking. Informal yet inspired, off-the-cuff yet beautifully composed, these pieces uncover the riches hidden in quotidian experience.
Avenues for Appreciating Life
‘The Book of (More) Delights’ is not just a collection of essays but a guide for cultivating gratitude in our everyday lives. With an appended reading list of works that have influenced Gay’s process, it offers abundant avenues for readers to appreciate and engage with the world.
