'This is the 25th anniversary (going on 44th) of an opportunity,of Earle Birney's sanctuary for creative writers. We, at the gateof the stockade, follow the migrations of the creatures imagined intolife outside; and it is best that I do as we always have -- let thegate swing open to let the curiosity roam, so that you can see some ofthose that came down through the years to drink at UBC and then moveon. Each of us has our favourites; you will find yours.' -- GeorgeMcWhirter, from the Introduction
Words We Call Home is a commemorative anthology celebratingmore than twenty-five years of achievement for the UBC Creative Writingdepartment -- the oldest writing program in Canada. The more than sixtypoets, dramatists, and fiction writers included provide just a sampleof the energy and vision the department has fostered over the years.From Earle Birney's pioneering efforts in 1946, to the birth of thedepartment in 1965, to the present day, the programme has created aplace for aspiring, talented writers.
That it has succeeded is evidenced by the numerous authors who havereceived Governor General Awards, Commonwealth Poetry Prizes, CBCPrizes for Poetry, and other distinguished awards. Words We CallHome is a collection of work that will hold a special place in thehearts of those who have watched UBC grow and flourish over the yearsand of everyone who loves literature.
This collection gives voice to several generations of Canadian writers in their restless search for literary identity. In the process they come close to giving voice to our own national cultural identity ... Words We Call Home is a startingly unique collection filled with pyrotechnical writing that is for the most part very enjoyable and accessible. If you are interested in the cutting edge of Canadian literature, then this is a collection for you to seek out and savor.
