Dark Airs

This study re-evaluates John Berryman's poetry, challenging narrow critical views and exploring its relevance in the context of American literature. Dark Airs expands the conversation on literary canon.

In the realm of American poetry post-World War II, Dark Airs sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of John Berryman. Critics have largely categorized him as an academic poet, suggesting that his evolution can be neatly traced from traditional New Criticism to a more self-indulgent confessional style. However, this study argues that such a limited perspective fails to encompass the full complexity of Berryman's work, which reflects the intricate religio-political landscape of Cold War America.

By critically analyzing Berryman's poetry, Dark Airs challenges the prevailing narrative that positions his work within a dichotomy of mainstream versus avant-garde. This examination reveals the inadequacies of traditional literary frameworks that seek to define Berryman's contributions solely in terms of established conventions. Instead, the book opens pathways for comparative analysis with poets who have often been marginalized due to rigid categorizations within the literary canon.

Ultimately, Dark Airs not only re-evaluates Berryman's significance but also prompts broader inquiries into the nature of the American poetic canon itself. It invites readers to reconsider established definitions of what constitutes 'postmodern' poetry, suggesting that a more inclusive understanding can enrich our appreciation of diverse voices within the literary tradition.