The Purpose of Things

Overview

A collection that penetrates the essence of "ordinary" things with evocative photography and insightful poems

Is the ordinary really so ordinary? Or illuminated in different light, does it reveal something far beyond what we previously imagined? In The Purpose of Things, poet Peter Serchuk and photographer Pieter de Koninck pair fresh language and images to create a landscape of new possibilities filled with insight and humor.

Reviews

"The Purpose of Things is a terrific collaboration between words and images… a delightful reconsideration of what's right in front of us." —Aline Smithson, internationally acclaimed photographer, artist, and curator

"The Purpose of Things is a rare and powerful synergy of poetry and photographic art. Like flint and steel, two probing and independent visions collide upon these pages, creating a shower of brilliant sparks. Pieter de Koninck's photographs—sometimes mysterious, often hilarious—form a wry and puckish commentary on their subjects. Peter Serchuk's poems are powerful, punchy, and endlessly intriguing. As a coffee-table book, this one's a double shot of espresso. If you thought there was nothing new to say on these timeless themes, think—and look—again!" —Dan Veach, poet and founding editor of

"Such a magical collaboration between imagery and text inspires our own enlightening, creative explorations. After viewing each beautifully composed photograph and reading each line of the accompanying poem, one sets sail on their own journey of discovery and realization. A powerfully expansive marriage of word and picture." —Brian Taylor, Executive Director, the Center for Photographic Art, Carmel-by-the-Sea

"Peter Serchuk and Pieter de Koninck connect word with image throughout The Purpose of Things in a way that creates a distinctive link between the two art forms… stunningly intriguing and ultimately inspiring." —Edward Byrne, poet, photographer, and editor of the Valparaiso Poetry Review

Author Biography

Pieter de Koninck is an award-winning art director and graphic designer who has created numerous print, broadcast, and online advertising campaigns for such major clients as The Boeing Company and Nestlé. In addition to his own photography, he has worked alongside a long list of nationally recognized photographers, cinematographers, and directors. Peter Serchuk's poems have appeared in a wide variety of literary journals including Poetry, The Hudson Review, Paris Review, Boulevard, New Letters, Texas Review, North American Review, and others. His previous collections are Waiting for Poppa at the Smithtown Diner (University of Illinois Press) and All That Remains (WordTech Editions).