This comprehensive anthology attempts to give the common reader possession of six centuries of great British & American poetry The book features a large introductory essay by Harold Bloom called " The Art of Reading Poetry" which presents his critical reflections of more than half a century devoted to the reading teaching & writing about the literary achievement he loves most In the case of all major poets in the language this volume offers either the entire range of what is most valuable in their work or vital selections that illuminate each figure's contribution There are also headnotes by Harold Bloom to every poet in the volume as well as to the most important individual poems Much more than any other anthology ever gathered this book provides readers who desire the pleasures of a sublime art with very nearly everything they need in a single volume It also is regarded as his final meditation upon all those who have formed his mind