ESF Professor’s Poetry Book Addresses #MeToo Topics

Janine DeBaise’s book Body Language tackles taboo topics
12/23/2019

A new book of ecofeminist poetry by Janine DeBaise, a professor at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), delves into the once-taboo topics of rape and sexual assault in a lyrical critique of American culture.

DeBaise questions the sexist practices of her childhood church and takes a jab at Disney in her a vision of a body-positive world. Her book Body Language begins with a breastfeeding woman comparing her measurements to those of a life-size Barbie doll.

The book ends with a celebration of the body and an affirmation of the ways that nature, community and friendship can lead to healing.

DeBaise teaches writing and literature in ESF's Department of Environmental Studies. She writes creative nonfiction and poetry that explore feminist and environmental issues. The full-length book of poetry is published by Main Street Rag Publishing, an independent press in Charlotte, North Carolina.

DeBaise's poetry and essays have appeared in numerous journals, including Orion Magazine, Portland Review, North American Review, and Southwest Review. Her poetry chapbook Of a Feather was published by Finishing Line Press as part of their New Women's Voices Series.