This omnibus collection of poetry richly reflects the experience of its already legendary author, invoking myth and history, tragedy and comedy, narrative and lyric, nightmare and the clear light of day. Allen works in a great tradition of storytelling and education, delight-making and argumentative to bring a multitude of people, places and situations before us. Particularly compelling is the variety of her poetic skill: her rich references, her lyrical flights, and always her earnest and compassionate voice.