This anthology investigates the evolution and breadth of twentieth-century New Zealand poetry by curating a representative selection of works from both established and emerging voices. Vincent O'Sullivan, a noted scholar and poet, compiles these selections to document the shifting cultural landscape of the nation. The collection serves as a historical record of poetic development, highlighting how the tone and thematic focus of New Zealand verse transformed over the course of the century.

Critics and scholars frequently cite this anthology as a foundational text for understanding the trajectory of New Zealand poetry during the twentieth century. It is widely regarded as a standard reference for students and researchers interested in the regional development of the craft.