This anthology investigates the evolution of English-language poetry in the post-war era, specifically identifying the emergence of a 'poetry of civility, passion and order' between 1945 and 1980. D.J. Enright, a noted poet and critic, curates this collection to highlight the shift in poetic sensibilities following the Second World War. By selecting works from forty distinct voices across Britain, America, and the Commonwealth, Enright argues that the period is defined by a move toward structured, articulate expression rather than purely experimental or chaotic forms.

Critics and academics frequently cite this volume as a standard reference for understanding the post-war poetic landscape. Readers often note that while the selection reflects the specific editorial biases of the time, it remains a foundational text for students of contemporary literature.