Diane Wakoski: an annotated bibliography of secondary materials

Abstract

Diane Wakoski, a twentieth-Century American poet, has talent that few people can deny. In the <i>Norton Anthology of Modern Poetry</i>, Wakoski 's images are classified as "shocking" and “adventurous” --they have a strong "narrative" and "didactic" interest. Mainly, her poems are "expressions of a lively personality," but she requires them to have "some kind of formal unity."

When <i>Inside The Blood Factory</i> was published in 1968, it was clear to many critics that Wakoski was an innovative and energetic poet. With her publication of <i>Virtuoso Literature For Two And Four Hands</i> in March 1975, Wakoski was acclaimed to be one of the most intellectually daring poets in America. However, some of Wakoski's later work lacks the energy of her first publication; nevertheless, her style has matured.

This bibliography of secondary materials has a threefold purpose. Firstly, it surveys criticism of Wakoski and her works that appear in books, periodicals, and newspapers. Critical opinions were found for the years 1963 to 1976. Secondly, this bibliography reviews existing critical work and comments on its worth and scope. Thirdly, this bibliography will serve as a useful resource for students and teachers interested in women's literature and the poetry of Wakoski.