Publisher's Synopsis
Edwin Arlington Robinson is one of poetry's most neglected figures. As with most American poets of the early 20th century (rather insultingly described as 'The Genteel Generation'), his work is often viewed through the lens of the oncoming modernist revolution in literature, a revolution headed by T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound. As such, Robinson is often seen as being a somewhat peripheral figure in poetry, although several of his lyrics such as 'Miniver Cheevy', 'Reuben Bright' and 'Richard Cory' are well-loved anthology staples. However, Robinson's work was all-too-easily pigeon-holed as being 'conservative' and 'traditional' with his clarity of expression and fidelity to the commonality of experience often deemed 'lightweight'. Michael Cullup maintains in this passionate advocacy of the Maine poet that Robinson was a master craftsman who produced profound and serious work worthy of rediscovery. His work also introduced a laconic and everyday tone which marks a new note in American poetry. The Forgotten Poet: The Poetry of Edwin Arlington Robinson also includes a substantial, quirky yet strikingly illustrative selection from the poet's work.
