This anthology investigates the historical evolution and thematic breadth of poetic expression among Canadian women over the course of two centuries. Rosemary Sullivan, a distinguished editor and biographer, compiles works from over seventy writers to demonstrate the development of craft and thematic focus within this specific literary tradition. The collection serves as a scholarly framework for understanding how individual voices contribute to a broader, cumulative cultural heritage.

Scholars and critics frequently cite this anthology as a foundational resource for mapping the lineage of Canadian women's poetry. Readers often note the academic rigor of the selection process and the value of the historical context provided for each poet.