Law of the Impenetrable

Few writers can put into poetry so effectively the feelings of disconnection and regret for lost relationships as Constantinos Vassis. In this finely wrought collection from a retired diplomat, lecturer and bibliophile, the author's Greek origins and his fondness for the poems of the great Cavafy are clearly evident. In 'Symplegades', 'Venices' and 'Bookstores', the latter's influence is remarkable, while in 'The table of love' the sublime moments of togetherness form a contrast to a posting in the undeveloped world, where love is tough, bitter, and pleasure is scared, voiceless. These lines from 'Merciless coordinates' are echoed in other pieces that bear the unmistakeable philosophical imprint of a Greek mind that has travelled and seen much. Mr Vassis revisits the bittersweet themes of love, isolation and caducity in touching, carefully tuned phrases. His poetry touches on the theme of human nature and its failings as in the caustic 'Synthetic cordiality'. But first and foremost these poems form a social criticism, whether that is to criticise our destruction of language - 'Ruined words' - or more importantly the politics of today's world - 'Declaration of war'.