Critical Commentary
“Entirely new, experimental, and worth the effort of reading. Passionate in places, contemplative in others, he travels from that ancient past toward the distant universe.”—Linda Hogan
“[G]estation to birth of new generation, this book gives monumental range to the genesis of identity and charts the pathway to soul of self. A long-awaited phenomenal debut.” —Allison Adelle Hedge Coke
“GENESIS whirls. These poems record not only the nine months of history occurring while the poet formed in gestation... it attempts to make sense of the whirling world of chromosomes, of snow across body-laden battlefields, the whirl of strobe lights in a sex club, and the spiral which meets in the center where isdzán and haastiń (woman and man) become indistinguishable. Apache’s collection challenges our footing on things we thought we knew.”—James Thomas Stevens
“Crisosto Apache’s collection is mesmerizing for its experimental formal variations. Inspired by Dine’ weaving methods, Apache creates ornate formal compositions coupled with a recursive reading experience. With the use of Apache Language (Ndé Bizaa) & Navajo Language (Diné Bizaad). Apache creates a cascading resonance where the reader is asked to separate themselves from what they know of Native American history and consider the Indigenous experience in America through Apache’s experiences on the reservation and in urban settings. Through these locations we are exposed to meditations on sexuality, Native American identity, and historical trauma... Genesis delivers an experience that is both kinetic and visceral.” —Santee Frazier
“Genesis, and Crisosto Apache, challenges, delights, and surprises at every poem. A constant theme throughout the work is the shaping of identity, and the concept of personhood as it relates to the culture surrounding us, in this case, focusing on Crisosto Apache's relationship to his Native American heritage. The book, as a whole, is wildly experimental, but unlike some experimental poetry, never fails to touch the soul with imagery that breathes, emotes….Vivid descriptions of planets, celestial bodies, and obscure astrological and botanical names are listed throughout the book, which was a particularly interesting way to develop this topic.
This is a mesmerizing book, and Apache is truly a master of his craft, and I highly recommend it to any serious reader of contemporary poetry, or anyone with an interest in indigenous poetry.” -Jack (less) Miller
