Description:
At what point do we figure it out // does it get easier // will we find the answers // will I feel okay?
Caitlin O'Ryan's debut collection is a journey of mirror smashing and everything we have come to accept being called into question. With deep vulnerability and wit, she invites us to look inside of ourselves and to interrogate what we find there. Fuelled by the times that we are living in, her poems vibrate through the pages, grabbing you with a sense of urgency that says 'you are not alone, I also feel this'.
Taken from her live performances and featuring her viral poem At What Point which has amassed millions of views online and culminated in her being invited onto BBC Woman's Hour, this book will light a fire in you that will continue to burn long after you have put it down.
Brief description: Caitlin O'Ryan is an actor and poet from Greater Manchester now living in London. She began performing poetry at the beginning of 2022 and has since headlined several of London's biggest spoken word nights including: SpitNights, Groove Verse, Poet's Palace, VERSES x Roundhouse and the international franchise 'Voices in Power'. She also performs as part of Sofar Sounds and has been commissioned by the likes of Refuge, British Heart Foundation and Amnesty International UK.Also known for her recurring role in the hit TV show 'Outlander', her poem 'At What Point' about the cost of being a woman in today's society, has amassed over 16 million views online, culminating in her being invited onto BBC Woman's Hour. Her poems have been shared by the likes of Jameela Jamil, Natasha Bedingfield and Sarah Cox. Caitlin also hosts her own podcast called 'Have You Got Your Sh*t Together?', which is a celebration of not having your sh*t together. Guests include notable poets, musicians, politicians and actors.
Review Quotes:
'Caitlin's words are as powerful on the page as they are on the stage.' Harry Baker
'Caitlin's articulation of feminism and womanhood in your 20s is powerful, beautiful and absolutely on point. Her poetry shines a light on the painful truth of misogyny faced by women everywhere, but also the immense strength of sisterhood. Her fresh take on age-old issues is tender and utterly engaging.'
Gemma Sherrington, CEO of Refuge
'Caitlin takes the heart of your inner 20-something, and handles it with such kindness and guiding generosity. Part advisory, part adversary, her voice is concerned for you and always comforting. '
Jack Garratt
'Caitlin's poetry sums up the paradox of being a young woman in the 21st century. At a time when we need people to speak out for women's rights more than ever, Caitlin understands the assignment.'Amnesty International UK'A devastatingly heartfelt, intelligent, witty and turbulent ode to female friendship, fears, hopes and dreams. The book I wish I'd had in my twenties but so glad to have now in my forties, where I still swim in the uncertainties of this beautiful and confounding life. ' Caitríona Balfe'Perfect poetry for when the world seems a little daunting. A gorgeous debut collection.'
Hollie McNish