Poems 1972-1982

One of the best contemporary poets travels from delight at the simple wonders of nature, through urban riches, confrontations with the dissolution of marriage and its consequences, including the twins loneliness and liberation, to the disaster that is war, especially US involvement in Viet Nam and its destructive consequences, and many points in between. Those who were attentive adults during the years encompassed here will appreciate how accurately Levertov renders and records the objective political history of the period, and recognize in themselves her anguished responses to it. This (as with the several companion volumes of similar title) incorporates into one what were originally three separate volumes, including that I (with many) consider her strongest, "The Freeing of the Dust," in chronological order. In view of the usual quality of the poetry, and generosity of the poet, this is more than a bargain for the price; even more so at less-than-list. It is probably my favorite Denise Levertov collection, most consistently strong and confident, but there are so many "favorite" poems throughout her books that though one might begin here, it is only to begin . . . (As important for the period, if you can find it, is her 1973 volume of essays "The Poet in the World".) The cover, and the printed pages, are in black-and-white -- perfect for reading in late quiet evening while there's snow on the ground. Or during quiet grey Winter afternoon with only the hushed noise of falling snow. Or in Spring or Summer amid noisy green nature.