Publisher's Synopsis
This critical study of Auden's writings up to l939 has been much acclaimed. It is based on Professor Mendelson's exceptional gifts as a critic and expositor, and as Auden's friend and literary executor. He has an unrivalled knowledge of the published texts, the manuscripts, drafts, private papers and the innumerable essays and reviews. His book remains the most penetrating, detailed and informative examination of Auden's pre-war poetry and ideas yet published.
