The Waste Land (Norton Critical Editions)

Literature scholars universally recognize Eliot's "Waste Land" as one of the most influential poems of the 20th century. The poem draws on a wealth of images, everything from classics of Western literature to Tarot cards, from anthropology to Eastern sacred texts. The title refers to the barren land of the Fisher King in Arthurian legend; both the king and the land eventually find redemption through the Holy Grail. Through a masterful use of language and symbols, Eliot brilliantly portrays the problem of meaning in the modern world --- and the way to deeper meaning!Unfortunately, many of Eliot's references are arcane, and not easy for the lay reader to pursue. For example, few modern readers happen to have a copy of Webster's play "White Devil" or excerpts from Shackleton's account of the Antarctic expedition readily available on their shelves. Hence, the virtue of this particular edition: in addition to Eliot's original poem and original notes, this book includes the relevant passages from every single work Eliot quotes in the "Wasteland", all translated into English. For the first time I have seen in print, this book allows the reader to understand this magnificent poem in light of the full scope of its allusions. A triumphant achievement!

Mr. T. S. Eliot was America's greatest poem and verse prose stylist of, at least, the 20th century. Go on the internet and look up "The Waste Land," and/or, "Christianity and Culture." Every single word and line has forceful, thoughtful meaning which is inspirational in these times of copybook authors and what I refer to as: Kindleists. There is nothing more powerful for your mind than a strong book, and, within that strong book, major narratives or poems that really make you use your God-given reading ability to grasp meanings.For me, "The Waste Land" is all about a society in the absence of God, and life's meaning short of original thoughts. Once you become an Eliot enthusiast, you can't return to ignorance of the media-created culture and social leveling and political abstractionism.

I love Norton Critical Editions. While you should absolutely also go on YouTube and listen to Sir Alec Guinness reading this poem, this edition also allows you to dive into Elliot's letters, and really helpful critical essays. It also includes all the notes and references so you can jump down rabbit holes of meaning as often as you like.

The poem itself is quite short, but this volume has excerpts of sources used by Eliot. It also has a great deal of critical analysis from various perspectives. I found it very helpful. And I'm not a huge fan of the poem itself!

Many have said this is probably the most difficult poem of all time because of its complexity. It has been suggested that Eliot did not fully appreciate what he had created. This is a work that needs to be read many times. I was introduced to it in an advanced English class in high school. It will stand the test of time along with Shakespeare.

I'm not sure why they even sell Kindle books that are this broken. It's especially frustrating with poetry. The lines are uneven, with the line numbers showing up anywhere on the page, and there are many places where the text is jumbled. (See photo) Unfortunately the window to return expires after a week and I missed it. Glad it was only $3.

Very comprehensive

Endlessly fascinating critical essays by all the top punters. Cleanth Brooks' essay was only one amongst several note-worthies. Be prepared to go back to all the referenced texts. Jessie L. Weston's is available as a free ebook from amazon as is the Golden Bough.

Copy I received was an outdated edition

Amazing insight. Everything you wanted and need to know.

Ottima edizione, ricca di annotazioni, saggi ed estratti che aiutano a comprendere la complessità di questo poema. The Waste Land non è un testo che ho analizzato durante la carriera universitaria ma volevo studiarlo per conto mio e quest'edizione è stata perfetta per farlo.

Una buona versione, stampato bene, i caratteri di giusta grandezza che rendono la lettura gradevole e scorrevole, e con delle note.

Very much helpful a book for those interested in English literature, and for the people using English as a second language as this book makes readers familiar with various sources Eliot has taken inspiration from. Excellent purchase!