Wise, witty, terrifying, unflinching and extraordinarily alive . . . both a great pleasure and a chill in the nerves' A.S. Byatt, GuardianIn Sentenced to Life, Clive James looks back over his unusually rich life with a clear-eyed and unflinching honesty. There are regrets, but no trace of self-pity in these verses, which - for all their open dealings with death and illness - are primarily a celebration of what is treasurable and memorable during our time here.This first-rate collection, which was an instant bestseller on publication, includes the unforgettable 'Japanese Maple' and shows one of our wisest poets with his insight and emotional power not only undiminished but positively charged by his situation. 'A magical work, direct, lyrical, moving, and wholly unsentimental' John Banville, New York Review of Books'Sentenced to Life is the work of a lifetime, at least so far' Philip Collins, The Times'James's confrontation with his approaching death is nothing short of inspirational' Joan Bakewell, Independent