Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit by @jenvcampbell

By Pamelascott

Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit explores disability, storytelling, and the process of mythologising trauma. Jen Campbell writes of Victorian circus and folklore, deep seas and dark forests, discussing her own relationship with hospitals - both as a disabled person, and as an adult reflecting on childhood while going through IVF.

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I don't think I need to explainthat it is Winter as I approach the house.- AT FIRST, THE HOUSE IS BLUE

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(@BloodaxeBooks, 14 September 2023, e-book, 64 pages, ARC from the publisher via @edelweiss_squad)

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I thought Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit was a remarkable collection of poetry. The poems are very personal, and I felt privileged that the poet let me into her world and her experiences. I found some of the poems, especially those recalling her struggle with IVF and the appalling attitudes of doctors heart-breaking. I especially liked Anatomy Of The Sea, The Hospital Is Not My House, The Body Festival, Alopecia, Fell and The Fives Stages Of IVF.