The Kingdom of Ordinary Time - Paperback

The Kingdom of Ordinary Time - Poetry by Marie Howe

The Kingdom of Ordinary Time is a contemplative poetry collection by Marie Howe, former Poet Laureate of New York. This paperback edition from W. W. Norton & Company examines the intersection of the secular and sacred within everyday moments.

About This Poetry Collection

Through intimate observations of daily life—running errands, caring for a dying mother, watching her child at the playground—the speaker navigates profound questions about existence and spirituality. Howe's poems investigate what distinguishes the self from the soul, where heaven exists in ordinary moments, and how to live meaningfully during the unmiraculous stretches of routine trouble and joy that define Ordinary Time.

The collection captures the tension between mundane responsibilities and spiritual seeking, finding grace in the overlooked moments that comprise most of human experience. Howe's verse transforms the everyday into the extraordinary through careful attention and lyrical precision.

Marie Howe's Literary Achievement

Marie Howe brings her considerable literary reputation to this work as the author of three previous poetry collections. Her earlier book Magdalene received recognition as a National Book Award longlist selection. As former Poet Laureate of New York, Howe has established herself as one of contemporary poetry's most respected voices.

Howe teaches at Sarah Lawrence College and lives in New York City, where she continues to write poetry that bridges the gap between the spiritual and the ordinary. Her work resonates with readers seeking meaning in everyday experiences and those drawn to contemplative literature that examines motherhood, mortality, and the search for transcendence.

Perfect for Readers Who Appreciate

This collection appeals to readers of contemporary American poetry, particularly those interested in spiritual themes explored through accessible, emotionally resonant language. The poems speak to anyone navigating the complexities of caregiving, parenthood, and the search for meaning in daily life. Howe's ability to find the sacred within the secular makes this a gift-worthy selection for poetry lovers and those exploring literary fiction with contemplative depth.