BOOK BRIEF

The Gold Cell

Sharon Olds
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The Gold Cell

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1987

Book Brief

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Sharon Olds

The Gold Cell

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1987
Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Poem • Fiction

Genre
Modern Classic Fiction
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Gold Cell by Sharon Olds is a poetry collection that explores personal and familial experiences. Through vivid and intimate language, the poems address themes of identity, human relationships, and the complexities of the parent-child dynamic, providing a deep reflection on life’s poignant and transformative moments.

Emotional

Dark

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.6

2,634 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sharon Olds’ The Gold Cell is celebrated for its candid exploration of human relationships and raw emotions. Critics praise her vivid imagery and unflinching honesty. However, some find her graphic style overly intense. Overall, the collection’s powerful voice and emotional depth resonate with those who appreciate intimate, personal poetry.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Gold Cell?

A reader drawn to The Gold Cell by Sharon Olds would appreciate deeply personal, raw exploration of family, sexuality, and identity. Fans of Sylvia Plath's Ariel or Anne Sexton's Live or Die would find resonance in its vivid, confessional style and emotional intensity.

4.6

2,634 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Poem • Fiction

Genre
Modern Classic Fiction
Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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