The Light River by Hal Colebatch

The Light River is Hal Colebatch's seventh collection of poetry. The poems range from the romantic love-story "Redhead with Phosphorus," to the high and epic heroism of "The San Demetrio." Many are lyrical evocations of Western Australia and in particular the Swan River and Rottnest Island, with travels and meditations in Britain, Asia, Canada and the Middle East. Others include tributes to the great science-fiction writer Poul Anderson, the heritage of King Arthur and celebrations of domestic happiness, as well as some sharp political comment. There are many celebrations of joy and delight. Equally at home in free-verse, rhyme, and highly-structured forms such as sonnets and even sestinas, Hal Colebatch is one of Australia's most powerful and versatile poets.