This volume serves as a comprehensive index of American periodical verse published in 1988. It provides an objective measure of contemporary poetry, cataloging works from poets across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and other regions. The index aims to reveal trends in poetic output and the cultural influences shaping these works. By indexing a wide array of publications, including literary, scholarly, popular, and specialized magazines, it offers a broad cross-section of the poetry landscape.

This index is recognized as an important resource for contemporary poetry research. Its objective measurement of verse output provides valuable data for scholars tracking poetic trends and cultural influences. The broad scope of indexed publications ensures a comprehensive overview of the poetry published in periodicals during 1988. Researchers can utilize this volume to understand the diverse landscape of American poetry and its global connections.