Stephen Spender is one of the most distinguished poets of his genera-
tion. That fact alone would give special interest to his assessment of
another poet, but to this study of Shelley he brings knowledge, critical
acumen, and clarity of judgement. His essay, with its select Biblio-
graphy, is a valuable contribution to the literature of the Romantics.

Spender achieved wide success with his autobiography World Within
World ( 1951). His other publications include Poems, The Still Centre,
Poems of Dedication, The Destructive Element (criticism), The Burning
Cactus (stories), Trial of A Judge (poetic drama) and The Making of a
Poem. For two years he was co-editor, with Cyril Connolly, of the
review Horizon, and he is now co-editor of Encounter.