Poetry Notebook: Reflections on the Intensity of Language

Clive James delves into the essence of poetry, exploring both celebrated and controversial figures from the twentieth century, such as Hart Crane, Ezra Pound, Ted Hughes, and Anne Sexton. His critical lens reveals hard truths while maintaining a celebratory tone, emphasizing the importance of poetry beyond literary confines. Highlighting his five favorite poets—Yeats, Frost, Auden, Wilbur, and Larkin—James showcases his deep engagement and ability to extract profound insights from their works, making this collection essential for poetry enthusiasts.