Guide to the Cantos of Ezra Pound

A revised and expanded edition of the reference handbook that makes Pound's Cantos accessible to students, scholars, and--most importantly--to the general reader. This is the essential guide to one of the most difficult and rewarding poems of the twentieth century. Ezra Pound's Cantos appeared in nine sections between 1917 and 1972. A complex of striking lyricism, savage polemic, and subtle reverie woven together with high artistry, they carry an extraordinary weight of reference and allusion which can be daunting. Drawing upon his deep knowledge of Pound's life and work--the author began corresponding with Pound as a student in 1957--William Cookson discusses the views on literature, history, and economics that shape and underlie the poetry. He provides introductory background material to each canto, supported, most importantly, by a detailed, page-by-page commentary identifying quotations, explaining allusions and cross references, and translating foreign phrases. Cookson shows that, despite surface difficulties, the poetry has clear lines of meaning, as well as humor and feeling that connect directly with general human experience. This book is an invaluable reference tool for Pound students and scholars, but its greatest achievement lies in making the Cantos accessible to any interested reader.

William Cookson is the founder and editor of the distinguished literary magazine Agenda and the editor of Ezra Pound: Selected Prose 1909-1965.)