Kevin Brophy's Poetry Collection Examines Privilege and Loss

In his latest collection of poetry, *An Inventory of Longing*, Kevin Brophy explores profound themes of loss, luck, and societal privilege through the lens of personal experience and broader societal reflections. Released by Whitmore Press on July 14, 2025, this collection has garnered attention for its evocative imagery and emotional depth, particularly as it addresses the disparity between the privileged and the underprivileged.

Brophy, an esteemed poet and academic based in Melbourne, Australia, is recognized for his significant contributions to contemporary poetry. He has previously received an Order of Australia (AM) for his services to creative writing and education in 2021. His work is often characterized by its engagement with various artistic forms, drawing connections between poetry, dreams, and lived experiences.

*An Inventory of Longing* is divided into four distinct parts, with each section delving into different facets of longing and existence. The first section is particularly notable for its intertextual conversation with Hope Mirrlees’ modernist poem, *Paris: A Poem*, which serves as an epigraph for Brophy’s own poetic exploration of the City of Light. Observations of Parisian life, as captured in his poetry, reflect a blend of personal and collective experiences, echoing the sentiments of both joy and sorrow encountered in urban existence.

The collection's opening poem, *About Happiness*, introduces readers to the complexities of urban life, depicting scenes that juxtapose beauty with stark realities. Brophy writes, “The river turns its glint green belly to the day between thin trees bristling at construction cranes festooned in safety flags.” This vivid imagery sets the tone for a collection that grapples with the contradictions of existence in a world where art offers fleeting solace amidst profound suffering.

Thematically, Brophy's work resonates with contemporary discussions on the efficacy of art as an agent of change. The poems reflect on encounters with homelessness and the limitations of artistic expressions to effect tangible change in the lives of those who suffer. For instance, the speaker in one poem reflects on a chance meeting with a homeless man who finds momentary joy in art, yet remains painfully aware that such beauty does not alleviate his material hardships. This tension between the uplifting nature of art and its inability to resolve systemic issues is a recurring motif in Brophy's work, prompting readers to consider the broader implications of privilege and societal responsibility.

Critically, the collection has been praised for its rich use of language and its ability to evoke deep emotional responses. According to Dr. Elizabeth Hart, a literary critic and Professor of English Literature at the University of Sydney, “Brophy’s poetry provides a lens through which we can examine our own privileges and the societal structures that perpetuate inequality.” This sentiment is echoed by fellow poet Myron Lysenko, who notes, “His ability to weave together personal narratives with larger social themes makes his work not only relatable but also essential in today’s discourse.”

In addition to its thematic depth, *An Inventory of Longing* showcases Brophy’s skillful engagement with form and structure. The poems often play with rhythm and line breaks, creating a musicality that enhances their emotional resonance. The collection’s final poem, *Blackbird*, encapsulates the cyclical nature of longing and belonging, suggesting that while moments of connection may be transient, they are nonetheless valuable.

Brophy’s work also invites reflection on the role of poetry in society. As he articulates in *For Henry*, “We arrive flaming into the world, each breath a gamble with the firestorm within us, every minute burnt against a winter always coming.” This poignant metaphor speaks to the human condition, emphasizing both the fragility and resilience of life and art in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, *An Inventory of Longing* stands as a significant contribution to contemporary poetry, providing a nuanced exploration of loss, privilege, and the transformative power of art. As readers engage with Brophy’s work, they are encouraged to reflect on their own positions within societal structures and the impact of their choices on the lives of others. The collection not only invites personal introspection but also resonates with broader social concerns, making it a vital read for those interested in the intersections of art, society, and human experience.