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| | Dana Gioia Online - William Jay Smith |
 | | Smith was now writing at the height of his powers, and this volume included many of his finest poems, like "American Primitive," "The Dressmaker's Workroom," and "At the Tombs of the House of Savoy." There was, however, already a sign of the changes to come. |
 | | Smith's father, who dominates much of the book, was a powerful but troubled man. Unsuccessful in the military, he was unable to withstand the pressures of civilian life. |
 | | Smith stayed in his room upstairs, which often stank from the brewing in the kitchen downstairs, listening to the voices of the men drinking and gambling. |
| www.danagioia.net /essays/esmith.htm (3745 words) |
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