Seth Brady Tucker, a professor at the Colorado School of Mines and an acclaimed poet, is set to launch his latest poetry collection, The Cruelty Virtues, on February 12, 2024. The collection, published by Three: A Taos Press, delves into the complexities of masculinity and societal expectations, drawing from Tucker’s personal experiences and observations of modern culture.
In discussing his motivations for the collection, Tucker reflects on his past, stating, “I’ve been steeped in all the wrong masculine identities. I was taught to admire things that weren’t all that admirable; they’re just normalized by our culture.” This sentiment serves as a foundation for the poems that explore various aspects of masculinity, portraying both its shortcomings and potential for kindness.
A distinct feature of The Cruelty Virtues is the author’s request for readers to purchase the book directly from him, the publisher, or independent bookstores like Prairie Lights Books, rather than through major online retailers. This aligns with the collection’s philosophy, emphasizing the importance of community and direct connection in a world often dominated by impersonal transactions.
The official book launch will take place at the Foothills Art Center in Golden, Colorado, where the event is free and open to the public. Following the launch, Tucker has scheduled additional readings, including an event on April 3 at Lighthouse Writers Workshop and another on April 11 at Tattered Cover, where he will share the stage with former Colorado Poet Laureate Joe Hutchinson and poet Madelyn Garner.
The collection is divided into sections that address different themes, beginning with the natural world and transitioning into more intense discussions about masculinity, aggression, and the societal roles imposed on men. The final section offers a call to action, encouraging reflection and fostering empathy.
An epigraph from renowned writer and activist Rebecca Solnit sets the tone for the book: “Violence doesn’t have a race, a class, a religion, or a nationality, but it does have a gender.” This perspective is woven throughout the poems, prompting readers to consider the implications of masculinity in shaping personal and cultural identities.
Tucker’s previous collections, including Mormon Boy and We Deserve the Gods We Ask For, have tackled similar themes, but he views The Cruelty Virtues as an evolution of his work. “Who do we admire in this culture? And should it be these men with what seem to me to be these apeish behaviors?” he questions, inviting readers to reflect on societal norms.
In the poem “Next Door,” Tucker vividly depicts a flawed neighbor whose rough exterior hides a deeper emotional truth. The poem begins with a portrayal of a man who “rarely wears a shirt” and engages in boisterous behavior, yet it concludes with a poignant revelation of a father expressing love for his children—a moment that underscores the complexities of masculinity and emotional vulnerability.
Another notable poem, “Gun Rights,” presents the perspective of a youth from a militaristic background, illustrating the consequences of a life steeped in aggression and the stark realization that such a lifestyle can lead to devastating outcomes. The narrative culminates in a moment of revelation as the young narrator witnesses the brutal reality of violence, challenging the glorified narrative often associated with masculinity.
Tucker acknowledges that the themes explored in The Cruelty Virtues can be challenging. “Which is why I scatter some softer pieces throughout and end the collection on a note of hope,” he explains, emphasizing his desire for empathy and kindness to prevail over violence. The final poems aim to reassure readers that there is still a path toward understanding and connection.
As Seth Brady Tucker launches The Cruelty Virtues, he hopes to inspire conversations about masculinity and its impact on individual lives and society as a whole. The collection is available for purchase on his website, the publisher’s site, or through independent bookstores. The launch event at the Foothills Art Center begins at 17:00 on February 12, marking a significant moment for Tucker and his exploration of these vital themes.
