Broken Ground: Poetry and the Demon of History

William Logan's book Broken Ground explores the works of canonical and contemporary poets, rediscovering the lushness of imagination and depth of feeling that distinguish poetry as a literary art. It includes long essays on Emily Dickinson's envelopes, Ezra Pound's wrestling with Chinese, Robert Frost's letters, Philip Larkins' train station, and Mrs. Custer's volume of Tennyson. Logan believes that poetry criticism must be both adventurous and forthright, and that no reader should settle for being told that every poet is a genius.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

In his captivating book, Broken Ground, William Logan delves into the rich tapestry of canonical and contemporary poetry, unearthing the timeless allure of imagination and the profound depths of emotion that define poetry as a literary art. This literary masterpiece encompasses lengthy essays exploring the enigmatic envelopes of Emily Dickinson, Ezra Pound's intricate grappling with Chinese, Robert Frost's poignant letters, Philip Larkin's evocative train station, and Mrs. Custer's remarkable volume of Tennyson. Each essay skillfully excavates the hidden treasures beneath the surface of the written word, revealing the profound mysteries that lie within.

Broken Ground also showcases Logan's renowned poetry chronicles and reviews, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the art form for over two decades. Logan firmly believes that poetry criticism must be both daring and forthright, challenging readers to venture beyond the confines of conventional wisdom and embrace the complexities and nuances of poetic expression. Within the pages of this book, Logan critically examines the works of a diverse array of poets, including Anne Carson, Jorie Graham, Paul Muldoon, John Ashbery, Geoffrey Hill, Louise Glück, John Berryman, Marianne Moore, Frederick Seidel, Les Murray, Yusef Komunyakaa, Sharon Olds, Johnny Cash, James Franco, and the former archbishop of Canterbury.

Logan's criticism stands on the fractured terrain of poetry, steeped in the rich tapestry of history and stained by its trials. These essays and reviews delve into the profound currents that flow beneath the surface of our poetry, discerning between the weak and the strong while discovering the enduring qualities of both weakness and strength. Through his insightful analysis, Logan invites readers to engage with poetry on a deeper level, fostering a deeper appreciation for its power to inspire, challenge, and transform. Broken Ground is a testament to the enduring legacy of poetry and the profound impact it has on our lives.

Weight: 662g
Dimension: 163 x 237 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231201063