Originally published in 1985, this study provides a clear and intelligent introduction to the work of the former Poet Laureate, Ted Hughes. The author presents the main works in a broadly chronological order and brings together the most interesting of Hughes' own critical remarks from interviews, recordings, letters and articles. Throughout the book West emphasizes the drama and the gestures behind the 'verbal surface' of Hughes' work and at the same time raises questions of value not just for Hughes' work but for all poetry, such as, what is myth and what is the purpose of poetry? Many well-known poems are used to illustrate his argument and a small number are examined in depth, making this an indispensable guide to Ted Hughes' work.

About the Author

Thomas West taught at the University of East Anglia from 1977 to 1983. He was Guest Professor at the University of Paris (X) Nanterre. He is the author of Symbolism as well as articles on literature, translation theory and contemporary art history.

Reviews

Original Review of Malcolm Lowry:

'An engaged and energetic survey of Lowry's work, concentrating largely on Under the Volcan but also usefully discussing the rest of the corpus, especially the early short stories...Binns offers an admirable condensed spy-hole onto Lowry's work.' Malcolm Lowry Review

Book Information
ISBN 9781032871394
Author Thomas West
Format Hardback
Page Count 120
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 260g