Branches of the Tree of Life: The Collected Poems of Abiodun Oyewole 1969-2013 - Paperback

by Abiodun Oyewole (Author), Betty J. Dopson (Introduction by), Gabrielle David (Editor)

BRANCHES OF THE TREE OF LIFE is the inaugural comprehensive collection of poems by Abiodun Oyewole, featuring many works that have not been published before. Oyewole's poetry is impactful, frequently political, consistently lyrical, and deeply moving. Throughout his four-decade career and his long association with The Last Poets, Oyewole is recognized as one of the poets who helped to transform American poetry by introducing open, expressive, spontaneous, energetic, and uncensored vernacular verse, which laid the groundwork for spoken word and Hip Hop. Drawing on spiritual, sacred, and mystical themes, Oyewole often uses the tree as a metaphor for transformation and growth. His poetry branches out in various directions, becoming grander in scale and more intricately diverse in form. BRANCHES OF THE TREE OF LIFE serves as a vibrant testament to a remarkable career, affirming Abiodun Oyewole's prominent position in the realm of poetry.

Author Biography

ABIODUN OYEWOLE is a poet, teacher, and founding member of the American music and spoken-word group The Last Poets, which laid the groundwork for the emergence of Hip-Hop. Over the years, Oyewole has collaborated on more than a dozen albums and several books. He travels around the world, performing poetry and teaching workshops.