Even before establishing New Directions, James Laughlin had encountered and studied with one of the greatest poets of this century: Ezra Pound. These selected letters capture the spirit of their growing relationship from pupil-teacher to publisher-author.

In his idiosyncratic prose, Pound's correspondence summons up both the man as he was actually known and the literary figure. Literature, music, friends, and politics fill his pages. And even when Laughlin's and Pound's politics totally diverged during World War II, Pound's respect for Laughlin remained intact.

Also of great interest are the years spent by Pound at St. Elizabeths and his observations while there. These letters give insight into the state of Pound's mind and the supposition of his insanity. Ezra Pound and James Laughlin: Selected Letters is a modernist source book - essential reading for anyone interested in tracing the real development of twentieth-century literature.