This anthology presents a curated selection of verse from six prominent Irish poets, highlighting the evolution of the Irish poetic voice across the twentieth century.

The collection serves as a platform for Austin Clarke, Richard Kell, and four other contributors to explore themes of national identity, landscape, and personal history. The editor organizes these works to demonstrate the technical diversity and thematic breadth inherent in Irish writing. The narrative framework relies on the juxtaposition of distinct stylistic approaches, ranging from traditional lyrical structures to more experimental modernist forms. Each poet operates within the constraints of their specific cultural context, navigating the tension between historical legacy and contemporary experience.

Readers and critics often view this anthology as a significant resource for understanding the mid-twentieth-century Irish poetic landscape. Discussion frequently centers on the editorial choices made by Robert Skelton in grouping these specific voices together. Critics highlight the balance between the established reputation of poets like Austin Clarke and the emerging work of contemporaries like Richard Kell. The collection is noted for providing a clear window into the stylistic shifts occurring within the Irish literary scene during this period. Many readers find the inclusion of biographical context helpful for interpreting the thematic density of the poems themselves.