U.S. & Canadian Authors - Interviews, Poets - Interviews, Poetic Theory, Poetry Writing
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Overview
William Packard's collection includes twenty-five poets who have been featured in The New York Quarterly. This is a record of where we have been and where we are. Work habits are described; most poets revise much, tend not to trust spontaneous first drafts. Many talk frankly about their states of mind. There are helpful conversations on the creative process itself, valuable insights into specific works, music and philosophy. Most insist that poets must read, and read, and read, not only contemporaries, but writers from the past.Over 20 of the greatest contemporary poets speak of their art and technique. "Sheer entertainment..."--Publishers Weekly
Editorials
Publishers Weekly -
This updating of Packard's collection of interviews with contemporary poets includes only 13 of the 17 published in the 1974 version but adds 12 poets. The theme of these question-and-answer sessions is craft, as in: ``Do you work at a desk?''; ``Do you revise?''; ``Do you carry a notebook?''; ``Do you play word games?'' While the poets oblige with detailed discussions of their work habits, they are also expansive, relaxed and obviously enjoying the opportunity to talk at length about their lives and works (with the notable exception of James Dickey, who comes across as irascible and arrogant). The questioners are gracious, enthusiastic and so well informed about their subjects that they draw them out wonderfully. Starting with Auden, the interviewees include Ginsberg, Levertov, Kinnell, Ashbery, Rukeyser, Creeley, Snodgrass and Swenson. This book may serve as reference to scholars, advice to young poets or sheer entertainment for anyone interested in contemporary poetry. (January)Book Details
Published
June 12, 1987
Publisher
New York : Paragon House, c1987.
Pages
359
Format
Hardcover
ISBN
9780913729304