THE LITERARY WORLD

London, England

1 January 1914

(Page 11)

UNIVERSITY POETS.

Cambridge Poets, 1900-1913, Chosen by Aelfrida Tillyard. (Cambridge: Heffer. 5s. net.)

Oxford Poetry, 1910-1913. Edited by G. D. H. C., G. P. D., and W. S. V. (Oxford: Blackwell. 3s. 6d.)

These two volumes, published almost simultaneously and entirely independent of each other, go to confirm what every reader of modern poetry has noticed for himself, that we are on the eve of a poetic revival such as we have not enjoyed for years. Now in this, as in every other poetic revival, the Universities have their part to play. Some of the very greatest poets have come from outside; but, as history shows, poetry is ultimately dependent on the men who have had a University training. . . .

[ . . . ]

It can have been no easy task to compile either volume. The Cambridge one leaves a great deal to be desired. The selections are not as judiciously made as they might have been; and it is difficult to see why the work of Mr. Aleister Crowley and of the anthologist herself should have been allotted so much space. The Oxford selection is at least representative and includes some remarkably fine humorous verse. Professor Gilbert Murray proves an admirable sponsor to it; while (is it fancy?) Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch seems to be entirely out of sympathy with the poets of his new University. Possibility he was only called in because he is such an experienced hand at writing introductions to popular anthologies.