A poet known for his refusal to be categorized presents a retrospective of his diverse work. Spanning over twenty-five years and more than thirty-five collections, this selection showcases Robert Kelly's multifaceted approach to poetry. His work ranges from concise, imagistic pieces to extended surreal narratives and formal series poems, all unified by a profound erudition that draws from archaeology, music, mythology, and contemporary art. Kelly's poetry is characterized by a passionate intellect, often compared to that of Wallace Stevens, making this collection a significant survey of his influential career.

From Booklist, Patricia Monaghan notes that Robert Kelly, in his extensive career of over 35 collections, has consistently defied predictability. This selection from 1960-1993 highlights his diverse forms, from imagistic fragments to surreal narratives and chants, all marked by his broad erudition. Monaghan praises Kelly's work for its passionate intellect, comparing him to Wallace Stevens, and suggests this survey may introduce him to a wider readership. The review implies a significant body of work that merits broader recognition.