This is a new collection of Williams's literary essays, taken from books, pamphlets and periodicals long out of print. The title essay develops William's theory of poetry but is also a covert homage to the woman who was his second and unacknowledged love. These essays cover nearly all his literary interests and the final one shows his sympathy for left-wing political ideas arising from his own poverty-ridden childhood. All shed light not only on their subject but also on Williams himself. Williams projected a collection of his essays with this title but did not in fact complete one. The editor has provided references for Williams's numerous literary allusions.