An Overview of Michael Ondaatje’s Mastery

Set in museums and piazzas across several continents, Michael Ondaatje’s poetry collection A Year of Last Things brilliantly explores its themes, reminding us of his mastery in the genre. This collection, more than a decade after his last book of poems, reinforces his reputation with themes of forgiveness, memory, loss, and the vicissitudes of love.

Thematic Depth and Stylistic Influence

Forgiveness and memory are central to many poems in this collection, most notably in the tender piece “5 a.m.” Here, Ondaatje evocatively captures the restorative power of memories as they return unexpectedly. His work travels across various countries, including Italy, England, and Sri Lanka, and features peripatetic elements that mark his distinctive style. Notably, Ondaatje integrates cultural and artistic references, enriching the poetic tapestry.

Distinctive Poems and Structural Variety

Most poems in the collection are in free verse, with a few written wholly or in part as prose poems. A Year of Last Things is segmented into various sections, each offering a unique perspective on shared human experiences. One particularly moving poem, “the then,” delves into unfulfilled lives, while “leg glance” cleverly uses a cricket metaphor to discuss love. By referencing W.G. Sebald’s technique of incorporating photographs into the text and touching on different artistic disciplines, Ondaatje’s poetry broadens its thematic resonance.

A Welcome Return to Poetry

After sharing the 1992 Booker Prize for his novel The English Patient, Ondaatje’s return to poetry with this collection is both timely and significant. Each poem displays his lyrical prowess, making A Year of Last Things an essential read for poetry aficionados. As Ondaatje continues to traverse various themes and locations, his unparalleled ability to blend introspection with broader cultural reflections is evident and celebrated in this new collection.