Syncopations: The Stress of Innovation in Recent American Poetry

Focusing on the evolution of American poetry from 1975 onward, this collection of 12 essays by Jed Rasula explores the dynamic interplay between innovation and tradition. It highlights the contributions of diverse voices, including women and avant-garde figures, while challenging the conventional notion of the avant-garde as a cohesive movement. The essays incorporate close readings, sociological critiques, and philosophical reflections, offering insights into the works of notable poets and critics. This analysis reveals the underlying forces that shape contemporary poetic expression.