Millay: Poems: Edited by Diana Secker Tesdell

The poems of Edna St. Vincent Millay are as relevant today as they were in the past. This is a nice little collection of her work, ranging from sad verses attempting to capture the nightmare of a friend's death to the wonders of nature. Her descriptions are heartfelt and sincere, allowing the reader to pause and ponder for a moment the wonder of the world in which she lived. Even now, her work lingers on in my memory, at times leaving me giddy with sudden happiness, melancholy and downtrodden or so inspired that no mere words can capture the free essence of my being. This is a worthy collection for anyone's permanent library.

The Everyman's Library Pocket Poets collection has a special place in my heart, and this collection "Edna St. Vincent Millay Poems" demonstrates all the reasons why. As the imprints name implies these are small sturdy volumes, uncluttered with essays, introductions, or annotations, instead offering readers the undiluted nectar of the poets own word. Thus one is spared lengthy biographical details of Millay (rich and ribald though it may be), and may focus on her work. Also included with the poems is one of her plays and though far from her complete works, those included are well chosen. Millay's poetry, rhythmic, naturalistic, and enchantingly sparse continues to demonstrate why she stands as one of America's greatest poets, and this book for the right reader will surely be a treasured companion for years to come.

I am so happy with this lovely new book of poetry! Although it is a compact volume, it contains Edna St. Vincent Mallay's best loved poems. It is a wonderful edition to my growing collection of Everyman's Library.