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Read the winning piece of our 2025 Nonfiction Contest “Through the Mirror” by Jessie Cato selected by Lucy Ives.

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William Merwin

Poetry

Summer 1952

Song of the Mad Menagerie

By William Merwin

I on whom the wild sun Upon unvaried journey Burned with jealousy Because of my unreason, Know I was legendary. On straw I lie down. Wise hand, be wary: My […]

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William Merwin

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Poetry

Song of the Mad Menagerie