Edge of the Orison

Discover the haunting journey of poet John Clare in Iain Sinclair's captivating book, Edge of the Orison. Published in 2006, this 400-page exploration delves into Clare's dramatic escape from an asylum in Epping Forest in 1841, as he embarks on an eighty-mile trek back to his home in Northborough. Driven by the memory of his lost love, Mary Joyce, who passed away three years prior, Clare's quest is not just a physical journey but a profound investigation into the complexities of madness, sanity, and the elusive nature of inspiration. Sinclair masterfully retraces Clare's footsteps, offering readers an insightful look into the mind of a troubled genius and the world he inhabited. Perfect for poetry enthusiasts and those intrigued by historical narratives, Edge of the Orison invites you to explore the depths of human emotion and creativity through the lens of one of England's most poignant poets.