Tallahassee’s Talented Writer Debuts New Poetry Collection

News Summary

Local writer Jennifer Schomburg Kanke has released her first poetry collection, ‘The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had,’ which blends personal memories with historical research. Centered around her relationship with her grandmother, Enid, the book explores family legacies and human experiences, making it a captivating read for poetry lovers. The collection draws from Kanke’s extensive research and two decades of writing, showcasing the beauty of everyday life interwoven with significant historical events.

News Summary

Local writer Jennifer Schomburg Kanke has released her first poetry collection, ‘The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had,’ which blends personal memories with historical research. Centered around her relationship with her grandmother, Enid, the book explores family legacies and human experiences, making it a captivating read for poetry lovers. The collection draws from Kanke’s extensive research and two decades of writing, showcasing the beauty of everyday life interwoven with significant historical events.

Tallahassee’s Talented Writer Debuts New Poetry Collection

Hey there, poetry lovers! If you’re in or around Tallahassee, make sure to keep an eye out for a delightful new release from local writer, Jennifer Schomburg Kanke. She’s hitting the literary scene with her debut volume of poetry titled, The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had. This is no ordinary poetry book—this gem consists of 94 pages filled with poems that read like an engaging novel, featuring characters brought to life in beautifully crafted paragraphs.

An Emotional Journey Through Time

The heart of this poetry collection is deeply personal, focusing primarily on Kanke’s relationship with her grandmother, Enid. Enid, who hailed from Scioto County, Ohio, played a pivotal role in shaping Kanke’s life. Your summers probably looked a bit different from hers, as she cherished every moment spent with her grandmother, who combined a nurturing spirit with an undeniably tough love! These summers stirred something profound in Kanke, leading her to delve into Enid’s life and rich history.

Bringing History to Life

What makes this collection especially compelling is how it beautifully intertwines personal memories with fascinating historical research. It’s not just about Kanke’s feelings—she dives into the past, sifting through old letters written during World War II and stories of the devastating 1937 flood that swept through Scioto County. Through this exploration, she paints a vivid picture of Enid’s life from her birth in 1919, traversing through the journey of widowhood, to her passing in 2006.

A Title with a Meaningful Backstory

The title, The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had, comes from a touching phrase used by Enid’s first husband while serving in wartime. It’s a nod to the love and dedication that bind families together, a beautiful reminder of the past that resonates throughout the collection.

A Journey Five Decades in the Making

Kanke isn’t just a novice in the world of writing; she has been nurturing her poetic voice since childhood. With a Ph.D. from Florida State University under her belt, she’s made a notable impact in the literary community by serving on the board of Anhinga Press and taking on the role of an editor at the Florida Board of Education. The collection also reflects over two decades worth of her research and interviews, showcasing deep reflections on everyday domestic moments like gardening and laundry, elements that carry significant emotional weight.

Celebrating a Life Well-Lived

Through her vibrant narratives, Kanke captures the essence of a well-lived life—its beauty, complexities, and understated joys. The poems serve as powerful biographical snippets, showcasing not only the achievements but also the struggles that Enid faced, painting a picture that many can relate to. It’s a collection that goes beyond mere words and stirs the soul, driving home the narrative of resilience.

Get Your Copy Today!

If you find yourself intrigued, you’ll be pleased to know that The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had is now available for purchase! You can grab a copy on Amazon, through Kelsay Books, or at your local Barnes & Noble. Don’t miss the chance to dive into a collection that has the power to evoke emotions and leave a lasting impact.

As Kanke eloquently captures the essence of Enid in her concluding lines, she reminds us that our loved ones leave behind not just memories but legacies that can fill the pages of poetry, echoing on long after they are gone. Whether you’re a lifelong poetry enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the pool of verse, this collection is sure to be a rewarding experience!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Festival of the Creative Arts Kicks Off in Tallahassee

Additional Resources

• Tallahassee.com: Jennifer Schomburg Kanke Launches Poetry Collection
• Wikipedia: Poetry
• Tallahassee.com: Kanke’s Poetry Collection Review
• Google Search: Jennifer Schomburg Kanke
• Tallahassee.com: Local Poets and Their Impact
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
• Tallahassee.com: Kanke’s Poetry Collection Signing Event
• Google News: Poetry Collections 2025