Some Imagist Poets, 1916 An Annual Anthology   By: John Gould Fletcher (1886-1950)

Some Imagist Poets, 1916 An Annual Anthology by John Gould Fletcher is an incredible collection of poems that showcases the raw talent and innovation of the imagist movement. This anthology, compiled and edited by Fletcher, provides readers with a thorough introduction to the diverse range of imagist poets and their groundbreaking work.

One of the notable aspects of this anthology is its inclusion of renowned imagist poets such as T.S. Eliot, Ezra Pound, and H.D. Through their poems, readers can witness the imagist principles of concise and vivid language, precise imagery, and the avoidance of excessive sentimentality come to life. Each poet's unique voice contributes to the overall richness and depth of the collection, making it truly a treasure trove for poetry enthusiasts.

Fletcher's editorial choices and organization of the anthology deserve praise. The poems flow seamlessly from one to another, creating a coherent narrative of the imagist movement and its evolution. Furthermore, Fletcher provides valuable historical and biographical context for each poet, offering readers a deeper understanding of the circumstances and influences that shaped their work.

One of the standout features of Some Imagist Poets is its emphasis on experimentation and breaking away from traditional poetic forms. The imagists sought to redefine poetry by focusing on concise, evocative language that conveyed vivid images and emotions. This anthology showcases their success in achieving this goal through a variety of innovative and thought-provoking poems. From Pound's "In a Station of the Metro," with its striking juxtaposition of images, to H.D.'s "Oread," which captures the beauty and power of nature, each poem leaves a lasting impression.

However, the anthology has a few shortcomings. It would have been beneficial to include more poets and their works to provide a more comprehensive overview of the imagist movement. Additionally, while Fletcher's introduction is informative, it could have delved deeper into the underlying philosophies and motivations behind imagism.

Overall, Some Imagist Poets, 1916 An Annual Anthology is an essential read for anyone interested in poetry, particularly those intrigued by the modernist and imagist movements. Fletcher's meticulous curation and insightful commentary make this anthology a valuable resource for both scholars and casual readers. Its enduring legacy as a pioneering collection of imagist poetry ensures its relevance even a century after its initial publication.

First Page:

In bringing the second volume of Some Imagist Poets before the public, the authors wish to express their gratitude for the interest which the 1915 volume aroused. The discussion of it was widespread, and even those critics out of sympathy with Imagist tenets accorded it much space. In the Preface to that book, we endeavoured to present those tenets in a succinct form... Continue reading book >>