Who published "Siren Song" by Margaret Atwood?

Margaret Atwood’s impactful and widely studied poem “Siren Song” was first published in 1974 in her second poetry collection Power Politics. This dynamic collection cemented Atwood’s rising prominence and critical acclaim as one of Canada’s preeminent contemporary poets. Examining the details around “Siren Song’s” first publication provides illuminating biographical context on Atwood’s development as a poetic voice.

Anansi Press and Atwood's Early Career Collaboration

Power Politics was published by House of Anansi Press, the Toronto-based publishing house that had printed Atwood’s first collection The Circle Game. This early partnership with Anansi established the company as the foremost publisher of Atwood’s poetry in her early career.

"Siren Song" in Power Politics - Positioning and Themes

Atwood included “Siren Song” as part of Power Politics’ opening section titled “Giving Birth.” This placement right at the start gave “Siren Song” a prominent positioning in the 96-page collection of 63 poems. The collection’s five sections focus on broader themes like femininity, nature, and politics.

The Bold Voice Emerges - Atwood's Growing Poetic Identity

Anansi Press’ continued support bolstered Atwood in publishing more raw, bold poetry examining women’s interior lives and sexuality. “Siren Song” exemplified Atwood’s growing poetic voice through its subversive, feminist revisioning of a classical Greek myth from the female siren’s perspective.

Power Politics and the Pivotal Role of "Siren Song" in Atwood's Literary Trajectory

The publication of “Siren Song” within Margaret Atwood’s incisive 1974 collection Power Politics marked a pivotal point in the poet’s rising trajectory toward literary renown. While early in her career, Atwood was already crafting indelible poems like “Siren Song” that challenged conventions while exhibiting her distinctive voice and thematic interests.