Pavilion Poetry: The Room Between Us

Denise Saul's debut collection has been longlisted for the Jhalak Prize 2023 and shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot Prize 2022. It has also been recommended by PBS for Summer 2022. In this work, Saul explores the intricate themes of family and identity, as she narrates the story of a mother's illness and subsequent aphasia, and the daughter's ongoing role as a caregiver.

At the core of their relationship lies an acute awareness of the limitations of language in articulating the painful experiences they share. Together, they embark on a journey to rediscover the world anew. The book is deeply affecting, finding a delicate balance between the extraordinary and the ordinary, weaving together the complexities that lie in between.

This sense of "betweenness" creates a space for Saul to explore the wider dynamics of power, as well as the epiphanies and aftershocks of ongoing loss. The narrative is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as the mother and daughter navigate the challenges posed by the mother's illness and the daughter's role as a caregiver.

Saul's writing is both poignant and lyrical, capturing the nuances of their relationship with a keen eye for detail. The book invites readers to bear witness to the intimate moments shared between the mother and daughter, as they grapple with the limitations of language and the transformative power of their bond.

Through this deeply personal exploration, Saul challenges the reader to confront their own preconceptions about family, identity, and the human experience. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and the ways in which we can find strength and solace in the face of adversity.

Ultimately, Denise Saul's debut collection is a remarkable work of literature, one that will linger with readers long after the last page has been turned. It is a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge the gap between the extraordinary and the ordinary, and to shed light on the complexities of the human experience.

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