my sister telling me to be quiet is superfluous
the dogs barking is superfluous
having trouble sleeping at night is superfluous

drinking lots of coffee is more than enough
playing Animal Crossing is more than enough
wearing a sweater is more than enough.

– Anna De Haan

Praise the Time of Quarantine Times

During quarantine, it’s “time to take a break of time” and to “feel a new person” (“Praise the Time of Quarantine”). Whether it’s catching fish, finding a free couch, or sending out messages and letters, the writers of Praise the Time of Quarantine Times have unearthed moments of strangeness and joy with the skill of detectives. Senses are heightened: “Wind / Blows by Keeping me Cool butterflies pass / by, it’s a beautiful day to be Alive and / Outside” (“Delightful Day”). This book delves into the spectrum of emotion—some days you feel invisible, while others, you “Praise the day as life wakes up” (“Praise the Day”). It’s all part of the fabric of living through a pandemic, and these writers have captured its intricacy.

 

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