In this collection of thirteen essays about writing, reading, editing and publishing poetry, six influential, independent poet-publishers explicate the values and ideas that began with the sixties mimeo revolution and that have continued to this day through the publication of American small presses and literary magazines. What is the best definition of poetry? Why write it or read it? What is its true potential? How will today’s poets be understood by those of tomorrow? Is the I in poetry always autobiographical? Can a diverse group of independent poets and writers be organized to serve the common good? Do things have to be done the way they’ve always been done? What is the most moral attitude for an editor to take? What are the two major camps in the poetry world, and do they serve a valuable function? Do poets and writers have an obligation to be tolerant of diversity? Should writers strive toward eclecticism in both their reading and their writing as a predominant value? Includes: Editing As a Life Practice by John Amen, The Persona in Poetry by Kirby Congdon, Freedom to Dream by Hugh Fox, The Potential of Poetry by Eric Greinke, Smarts? by Richard Kostelanetz, Eight Attributes of Poetry by Harry Smith.