This anthology investigates the breadth and evolution of English-language poetry throughout the twentieth century by curating a representative selection of works. Philip J. Larkin, a prominent poet and librarian, utilizes his editorial expertise to compile a volume that balances canonical figures with lesser-known voices. The collection serves as a successor to W.B. Yeats's earlier anthology, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the century's poetic output.

Critics and scholars frequently cite this anthology as a significant reference point for understanding the shifting landscape of modern English verse. Readers often note the distinct editorial voice of Larkin, which provides a specific, curated perspective on the century's literary achievements.