Review of Colin McGuire's Poetry Collection 'Ultraviolet'

McGuire, a Scottish poet and performer, is known for his dynamic and relatable performances. His poetry often features elements of deep observational humor and addresses issues such as mental health, vulnerability, urban isolation, and the quest for inner peace. In *Ultraviolet*, his writing is accessible and direct, making the exploration of modern anxieties both impactful and thought-provoking.

The collection begins with "Book of Dermis," which reflects on the human body as a vulnerable vessel. Lines like "I want my skin read the way my brothers should have been read" evoke the distress connected to physical fragility. The metaphor "A mole is a landmine. A submarine hatch with the enemy inside" emphasizes the unseen dangers we might ignore.

In contrasting tones, "A Small Thing" addresses existential powerlessness amidst human suffering in an indifferent universe, illustrating our vulnerability by questioning, "our prayers in the tiniest helium-pitched voices, shouting help to the sky?"

The poem "Ode to a Burglar" shifts focus to themes of domestic intrusion, where the trauma of a burglary impacts the speaker’s perception of time and highlights the loss of intimate family memories, such as a mother’s engagement ring.

The collection returns to loss with the poem "Dad calls me to tell me Craig is terminal and I go climbing," where the natural environment becomes a metaphor for extreme grief. In this piece, climbing serves as a means to cope with unbearable news, but the mountain becomes a perilous trap.

As the poems progress, warmer memories emerge, particularly evident in "Communication styles for brothers," which celebrates the unique bond shared by two brothers who communicate through a coded language of affection.

The poignant finale, "Sleepover," strips away metaphors to place the reader in the hospital room during Craig’s final hours, providing a heart-wrenching close to the collection.

*Ultraviolet* is a powerfully emotional work that resonates with anyone who has faced terminal illness or the enduring bonds of family. For those interested in contemporary poetry, it’s a rewarding read.

Colin McGuire will also be performing live at various events, including Loud Poets in Edinburgh on October 12 and Southbank Centre in London on November 4.