SAVAGE BEAUTY The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay

One of the leading poets of the early twentieth century, if not of all American history, Edna St. Vincent Millay found her voice through a life that refused limits set by herself or anyone around her. Nancy Milford obtained access to previously unreleased personal papers of the poet. These, combined with thorough research, offer the first complete and balanced portrait of Millay. Kimberly Schraf presents the work as the scholarly documentary it is, while indulging in a few light character-izations that enhance the author's portrayal. She layers a nearly transparent Southern drawl over a Louisiana lover, while refraining from the same touch with Millay's Dutch husband. Through her insight and Milford's compassion, listeners will find a new or renewed appreciation for the poet and the woman. R.P.L. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 02]