Keri Glastonbury Shares Poem on Ageing and Family

Poet Keri Glastonbury has shared insights into her poem titled 'Read it like a Lana Del Rey video … with ibises,' as part of Australian Poetry Month. Glastonbury explained that the poem draws inspiration from a camping trip to the Warrumbungles and delves into themes of Australia, family, and the process of ageing. The poem itself features lines such as 'obviously ageing (headshot short ashy hair / resting poet face, hook nose) but never / old enough for Winnie Blue in a silver / drawstring handbag after hockey.' Glastonbury reflects on past expectations regarding aged care solutions by the 'Boomers' generation and contemplates the idea of returning to a former residence, contrasting it with the reality of 'Eastern suburbs art deco / cracking frozen puddles at the tip.'

The poem also touches upon historical context, referencing the area's past as a 'depression era shanty town' and suggesting a need to consult historical archives like Trove to understand past narratives, specifically mentioning 'star-crossed lovers' and geographical boundaries like crossing the river. Glastonbury further explores personal experiences, including the attempt to manage dog ownership and the subsequent grief from the death of a pet, leading to a feeling of being a 'pretender.' The title itself, 'Read it like a Lana Del Rey video … with ibises,' suggests a blend of contemporary cultural references with natural imagery, hinting at a layered and evocative poetic style. Australian Poetry Month is an annual event that highlights the work of contemporary poets, providing a platform for them to discuss their creative processes and the inspirations behind their poems. Glastonbury's contribution offers a personal and reflective look at universal themes through the lens of her own experiences and observations of the Australian landscape and society. The poem's exploration of ageing is presented not as a singular event but as an ongoing process, intertwined with memories, societal expectations, and personal identity. The inclusion of specific cultural touchstones like Lana Del Rey and the mention of 'Winnie Blue' cigarettes and 'hockey' grounds the poem in relatable, albeit specific, cultural moments, while the natural element of 'ibises' and the geographical setting of the Warrumbungles provide a distinctly Australian backdrop. The poem's structure, as presented, includes fragmented thoughts and observations, mirroring the often non-linear nature of memory and reflection, particularly when confronting themes of mortality and the passage of time. Glastonbury's commentary on the poem aims to provide readers with context and a deeper understanding of the emotional and intellectual landscape she navigates within her work, encouraging a more engaged and thoughtful reading experience.