"Probing and insightful...deeply illuminating...This brilliant collection [asks], 'How do poems–how does art–work?' Hirshfield's original excursions take no shortcuts, subtly integrating image, statement, experience, and understanding." –World Literature Today "One of our finest poets [and] best essayists on the act of writing and the art of poetry...She speaks to the largest audience of poetry lovers...Windows are thrown open to a vision of poetry from the inside looking out." –New York Journal of Books "In 20 or 30 years, this book may be remembered as one of the great common-readers on the pleasures of poetry . . . . [Hirshfield's] approach to poetry is exhilarating. Reading her is reminiscent of the joy found among the insights and illuminations of Hugh Kenner's best work . . . . This thrilling work of immense value is truly an important book on one of the most important subjects: poetry. However, like a strong drink (or a great poem) it probably isn't to be taken in a single gulp. It may even seem a little intoxicating, but drink."–
Library Journal, starred review
"With precision and passion, Hirshfield elucidates poetry's "musical shapeliness," "creative intention," embrace of uncertainty, and how poetry engenders a profound "unlatching." She draws stirring examples from Shakespeare, Hopkins, Whitman, Auden, Bishop, Milosz, Brooks, and Komunyakaa and illuminates the power of haiku in her affecting in-depth profile of the Japanese poet Bash. Hirshfield writes brilliantly of paradox in poetry, of what poets and stand-up comics have in common, and how poetry "counters isolation and meaninglessness." The profound pleasure Hirshfield takes in delineating poetry's efficacy makes for a beautifully enlightening volume. –Donna Seaman
, Booklist (starred review)
