playtime

playtime by Andrew McMillan is a powerful collection of poetry that delves into the complexities of growing up and discovering one's identity. Winner of the Polari Prize 2019, this 80-page book, published in 2018, offers vivid and accessible verses that resonate with readers on a deeply personal level. McMillan's intimate and sometimes painfully honest approach takes us back to childhood and early adolescence, exploring the myriad ways we confront our sexual selves and navigate the tumultuous journey into adulthood. Through poignant reflections on teenage rites of passage—including eating disorders, masturbation, and the loss of virginity—McMillan captures the dilemmas and traumas that shape our lives. This compelling work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with growth and identity, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the nuances of human emotion and self-discovery.