A timely meditation on America, exploring girlhood, motherhood, and the search for meaning in a divided nation.From acclaimed poet Zoë Brigley comes a collection of creative nonfiction and craft essays that delve into the complexities of American society and personal experience. Brigley explores themes of violence, trauma, and redemption, drawing on literary and popular culture to examine the possibilities of girlhood and motherhood. The essays also touch on the writer’s English family, Halloween in America, and the pervasive issue of guns.Through a feminist lens, Brigley navigates the intersection of personal and political, offering insightful commentary on contemporary issues. Readers interested in essays, feminist literature, and cultural studies will find Notes from a Swing State a thought-provoking and deeply personal exploration of life in America and beyond.