A Separate Vision

Focusing on the works of four prominent poets—Louise Bogan, Maxine Kumin, Denise Levertov, and Adrienne Rich—Deborah Pope examines the theme of isolation as a pivotal aspect of women's literature. She identifies a progression in their poetry from victimization to validation, highlighting distinct phases of isolation. Bogan embodies victimization, Kumin personalizes alienation, Levertov illustrates the split-self, and Rich exemplifies empowerment and change. Pope argues that these women's explorations reveal new dimensions of human dignity and worth in contemporary poetry.