Selected Poems (Used)

William Plomer was born in the Transvaal in 1903. He was educated in England and Johannesburg. This selection of poetry is meant to bring 'English' Plomer closer to South African readers. This volume confirms that he wrote of his literary career; and that, in the history of South African literature, no poet has developed across a greater range of experimentation and style. 

Plomer’s poetry combines lyrical echoes of Georgian poetry with modernist sensibilities. His humane liberalism and global perspective set him apart, making him a favorite poet of E. M. Forster. In his work, Plomer often emphasizes connections between individuals and the significance of every life, even in seemingly trivial moments. For example, in “Death of a Hedge-Sparrow,” he observes the bird’s passing with solemnity, refusing to deny its importance.