James Merrill, Postmodern Magus: Myth and Poetics

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The book delves into the influence of the nekyia, a Homeric narrative about descent into the underworld, on James Merrill's poetry. Smith meticulously analyzes how this myth shapes and gives meaning to Merrill's entire oeuvre, extending beyond "The Changing Light at Sandover," where it serves as a central premise. The exploration reveals the pervasive presence of this theme throughout Merrill's works, highlighting its significance in understanding his poetic evolution and the interconnectedness of his writings.