The Annotated Collected Poems

Edna Longley did a masterful job of editing and annotating Thomas's poems, and though it can feel a bit academic at times, it's not difficult to focus on what interests you without feeling that you're obligated to immerse yourself in every detail of her extensive research and analysis. Her introduction is a must read if you want to put his poetry in context and understand the man and the artist. The notes in the back of the book are very helpful in understanding some of Thomas's more oblique poems, and though they can be a bit daunting in their thoroughness, you can scan them for whatever insights interest you. In any case, all the poems are there, the book is well made and designed for comfortable reading. I consider it the very best collection of his poetry available.

Very moving poetry. Should be read in conjunction with the recently published biography of Thomas by Matthew Hollis "Now All Roads Lead To France". Thomas, a leading British critic and prose writer took up poetry as a main interest after meeting and becoming a close friend with the American poet Robert Frost who encouraged him to concentrate on poetry. Thomas tragically died in combat at Arras, France in 1917. Thomas composed serious poetry for only two years before his death.

The whole cd works, each track blending quite well with the rest. Samplers often feel disjointed, even if the music is good. But again, this one doesn't have that feel at all.

This is a really well produced volume at a remarkably good price. The quality of the paper, the text and the valuable annotated comments have made the reading of this poet's work a real delight. He was new to me but his work, with its surface simplicity and depth of feeling and observation, is of a high order. It will be a long term pleasure to have the volume at my bedside.

My late wife was a great fan of ET's poetry, and a keen reader of all the Dymock poets. I'm enjoying both reading them and studying them from the critiques at the back.

As new

Having been born and bred a short distance from his former homes I must confess bias, however this is a fine collection of poems.Not all are war poetry.

Great to have the explanatory notes