';Perfection is a rare accomplishment, particularly in American poetry, and the perfection of much of Hollander's work makes it essential reading for anyone who genuinely cares for the craft of poetry. But in our fallen world we seem fated to value power of perfection, and John Hollander's poetry has shown a visionary power just often enough to secure him a place as one of the major figures of our moment.'Vernon Shetley, The New Republic