Walter Lowenfels -Editor [Prologue Poem by Langston Hughes]

Poets of Today a New American Anthology [Signed - Association Copy]

New York: International Publishers, 1962. First Edition, First Printing. Hardcover with Dust Jacket.

Signed by the Editor Walter Lowenfels with a warm inscription to Horizon Books publisher Ben Raeburn.

Light red cloth with silver gilt spine titles to green boards; 8.25 inches tall; 5-143 pages with biographical notes about each poet. No Flaws or Blemishes but minimal shelf handling; The bindings are tight and square. Text is clean. The dust jacket has the price of $5.00 minor handling wear, slight rub on the top of the spine.

Poets of Today: A New American Anthology, edited by Walter Lowenfels, stands as a significant compilation in modern American poetry, marked by its diverse and vibrant selection. The anthology opens with a poignant prologue poem by Langston Hughes, setting a tone of cultural and literary resonance. Lowenfels, a pivotal figure in the mid-20th-century American literary scene, curated a collection that reflects his commitment to progressive and experimental voices.

Notable poets featured include luminaries such as:

+++ Bob Dylan: While primarily known as a musician, Dylan’s lyric poetry has earned him a place among America’s greatest poets. His ability to capture the political, cultural, and personal anxieties of his time through song lyrics is legendary. Dylan’s poetic voice often blends social criticism with deep metaphor, making his works a profound commentary on the human experience.

His poem A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall was first written in 1962, but the song version was not released until 1963, as part of his album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. The poem itself, often considered one of Dylan’s most powerful and symbolic works, captures the tumultuous mood of the early 1960s, reflecting political tensions, social upheaval, and existential concerns. 

+++ Langston Hughes: Known for his powerful portrayals of African-American life and culture, Hughes's inclusion in the anthology highlights his enduring influence.

+++ Robert Creeley: A leading figure in the Black Mountain Poets movement, Creeley's minimalist style and introspective themes add depth to the anthology.

+++ Gregory Corso: A key member of the Beat Generation, Corso's poetry is marked by its spontaneous energy and explorations of identity, existentialism, and social unrest.

+++ Charles Bukowski: Known for his raw, unflinching portrayals of life on the margins, Bukowski's work is characterized by its gritty realism, autobiographical elements, and unapologetic treatment of subjects like alcoholism, love, and loneliness.

+++ Ishmael Reed: A trailblazer in African-American literature, Reed’s work challenges traditional narratives and explores race, identity, and the absurdity of American society. His style is eclectic, blending satire, magic realism, and postmodern techniques to critique social and political injustices, establishing him as a provocative voice in contemporary literature.

+++ Raymond Patterson: A lesser-known yet significant figure in the New York School of Poets, Patterson's poetry often explores themes of identity, racial consciousness, and social alienation. His works are known for their lyrical quality and thoughtful engagement with the complexities of African-American life in a predominantly white society.

+++ Denise Levertov: Recognized for her lyrical poems that blend personal and political themes, Levertov contributes works that resonate with social commentary and spiritual exploration.

+++ Allen Ginsberg: Renowned for his groundbreaking poem "Howl," Ginsberg's presence in the anthology underscores his role in challenging poetic conventions and advocating for social change.

+++ Lawrence Ferlinghetti: Co-founder of the famed City Lights Bookstore and an influential poet himself, Ferlinghetti's inclusion reflects his commitment to promoting avant-garde literature and cultural activism.

Each poet's contribution in Poets of Today not only showcases their distinctive style and thematic concerns but also contributes to a broader narrative of American literary evolution in the mid-20th century. Lowenfels's editorial vision ensures a cohesive yet diverse collection that captures the spirit of its era while celebrating the individual voices that shaped it.

Item #20314

Price: $75.00