Yannis Ritsos was a prominent Greek poet, often associated with the generation of the 30s. His work frequently explored themes of exile, resistance, human suffering, and the beauty of the everyday. He was known for his lyrical yet stark language, often employing a sense of quiet desperation or profound humanism. This particular collection, '82 Seconds, Bird Shadows, Monochords and Other Poems,' brings together various facets of his expansive poetic output. It likely showcases his characteristic blend of surrealism, political undertones, and deeply personal reflections, inviting readers into a rich tapestry of emotion and imagery from one of the 20th century's most significant voices in poetry.