At the end of last year, I approached a few editors of speculative poetry to recommend five “Best of…” poems of 2012. I asked that the five recommended poems would be written, edited and published by other people, rather than the editors themselves. The various selections so far can be found at the poetry recommendations by editors tag.

Today’s selections have been contributed by Erzebet YellowBoy of Cabinet des Fées, Jabberwocky, and Papaveria Press.

 

Erzebet’s Recommendations:

“Carrington’s Ferry” by Mike Allen (Strange Horizons, January 2012)

An evocative tribute to author and artist Leonora Carrington. This poem makes you feel like you are inside one of her paintings.

 

“Nuclear Winter” by Ash Krafton (Electric Velocipede 25)

A short, dystopian poem that fuses longing and love. I chose it for the simplicity of its sentiment.

 

“Cardiomythology” by Virginia M. Mohlere (Goblin Fruit, Autumn 2012)

The best speculative poems combine the mythic and the personal. Virginia’s eulogy to the heart does just that.

 

“Under the Asphodel” by Erik Amundsen (Mythic Delirium 26)

I have always loved the way Eric uses words. Here he lures us down beneath where the flowers grow.

 

“The Last Crone on the Moon” by C.S.E. Cooney (Goblin Fruit, Winter 2012)

This is one of the most beautiful poems I have ever read. There should always be a crone where children are.