Press Release - Mathematics of Fire

Mathematics of Fire • March 14, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 28, 2007
Contact: Ryan Hosler
rbrooks@millikin.edu

DECATUR, IL—Millikin University’s newly formed publishing company, Bronze Man Books, is announcing the release of Mathematics of Fire, a poetry chap book written by Millikin alum Josh Wild.

The book marks the second release from the fledgling publisher, which was founded last Spring in order to give students the opportunity to work hands-on in the publishing industry.

Mathematics of Fire is a collection of 16 poems focusing on the struggle of 21st century Midwestern life. It blends the traditional with the contemporary, as well as religion, the social climate of the Midwest and politics.

Wild’s distinct poetic voice complements his unique perception of the world in poems such as Cerulean Butterfly.

My God, the inspiration and the will
That brings you to the surfacing of bone.
The terror of a hand that can erase itself.

                    — Cerulean Butterfly from Mathematics of Fire

Wild concluded his illustrious collegiate career with Mathematics of Fire, a project that earned him the distinction of graduating with honors from the Millikin English department in May 2006. A double major in English-Literature and English-Writing, Wild was a staple contributor to the university’s literary magazine, Collage throughout his tenure at Millikin. His writing earned him numerous honors, including multiple Dr. Grace Conant Writing Awards, given out annually to the top English students at the University. Since graduating, Wild has worked as a journalist, a factory worker, a staple remover, a learner of words, a scanner of legal documents, and a bubble wrapper of artwork and sharp, metallic objects generously termed “art.” He currently lives in Chicago.

The 36-page chapbook is scheduled to be released on March 14, 2007.

Citation

Press Release. "New Chapbook, Mathematics of Fire by Josh Wild, Published by Bronze Man Books." Bronze Man Books, Millikin University, (Decatur, IL), February 28, 2007.