From Library Journal
As Cooper's afterword reminds us, Paley spent the early part of her career as a poet. All the familiar themes from Paley's stories are present in her first volume of poetry: New York City's streets and playgrounds, the portrait of working-class and immigrant life, the strong Jewish identity, the pacifist and feminist sensibility, the love and care for her parents, husband, and children. There is also one new theme: the landscape of Vermont, where Paley spends summers. It would be wrong to view these poems simply as an extension of her fiction, however, since they contain a strong pulsating rhythm and easily incorporate all the delicacies of brief conversation. One reads quickly through the poems, noting how their themes recur, and the final impression is of the entire book rather than a specific poem. Even hardened poetry readers will be surprised at Paley's talents. Rochelle Ratner, formerly Poetry Editor, "Soho Weekly News," New York
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
