Conrad Aiken: A Life of His Art

by Jay Martin

A review of Aiken's poetry, short stories and novels, including his work as a literary critic. His motivations for writing are viewed in light of major events that occurred throughout his life, and his influence on the world of poetry is also examined.

280 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1962

Reviews

[Daniel Hiland · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction for those wanting to understand both Aiken and his work as a poet, writer and literary critic. An examination of his writing yields clues about his life and motivation for much of what he produced. And since Mr. Aiken is a cipher to folks like me (who haven't read as much about him as I should), this book did answer some questions about the meaning behind Ushant and some of his other, less-than-accessible works.

Though the author is sympathetic, he is also candid in his opinions about Aiken's failures, especially as they relate to his poetry. Yet, even these criticisms only serve to make Conrad Aiken vulnerable, human, all the easier to relate to.

Conrad Aiken is a writer and poet worth getting to know. Maybe someday the Library of America will wise up and publish a collection of his work...

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Best intro still to Aiken's work for the few who still know who Aiken was.