The Buzz...About Books

In Viewing Tom Thomson, A Minority Report, Kevin Irie examines the role of the iconic Canadian landscape painter within a modern, diverse Toronto. This haunting and poignant collection of poetry is divided into four sections, 'Viewing Tom Thomson,' 'Snow is Violence,' 'Flame Artist,' and 'Of The West Wind Hanging at a Toronto Bank.'

Tom Thomson (1877-1917) was a renowned landscape painter who died under mysterious circumstances in 1917 while on a canoeing trip at his beloved Algonquin Park. He was associated with, and provided inspiration to, the Group of Seven artists but did not actually become a member due to his untimely death.

 Irie brings Thomson's paintings to life, providing vivid descriptions of various locations throughout Toronto including the Scarborough bluffs, the Humber River and the Etobicoke Creek. While never denying Thomson’s artistic excellence, Irie raises important questions about the role of traditional Canadian icons in a diverse and multicultural Toronto. Evocative, affecting and powerful, this thought provoking collection of poetry is unquestionably deserving of this year's Toronto Book award.

Irie, who lives in Toronto, is the author of four books of poetry, including Dinner at Madonna's and Angel Blood: the Tess Poems. Viewing Tom Thomson A Minority Report is one of five Toronto Book Award nominees.  The winner will be announced on October 9.

Thomson, your paintings are my tent view

As I wake again to urban Toronto.

Bank halls, school rooms, you’re bagged in public,

Poster child for the Canadian north.

Canada, a canvas still being painted,

a portrait extended but never complete.

 From Viewing Tom Thomson, A Minority Report by Kevin Irie, p. 16