PREFACE. IN presenting to the public the first volume of the "Poets of America," the Editor ventured upon an experiment before untried in our country. His plan has now been sanctioned by general favour and approbation, and he trusts that this his second volume will not be found less worthy of an encouraging reception than its predecessor. This mode of publication seems to be well adapted to the form and spirit of our American Poetry. The Muse of the New World-as yet in her minority-has been hitherto distrustful of her powers. Her best efforts have been occasional, unpretending and fugitive. Like the Sybil of old, she has trusted her deepest inspirations to the loose and flying leaves. These scattered effusions of fancy and feeling-the Anthology of America-it is the purpose of the present series of publications to collect and embody in a fitting and tasteful form. To do this, the aid of the Sister Arts of Design will hereafter, as in the volumes already published, be called in to illustrate and adorn the creations of the Poet. The Editor trusts that the continuance of the public favour will enable him to carry into effect his intention of thus presenting in a succession of volumes, a complete Library of the best American Poetry, in a shape more elegant and attractive than any in which it has yet appeared. The skill displayed by the Artist in the illustration of the present volume, is referred to with much pleasure by the Editor, as a proof that this part of his plan will not be inadequately executed; and his work is submitted to the lovers of American Poetry and Art with much confidence that his purpose will be generally approved, and his efforts to accomplish it suitably sustained. |