ESSENTIAL EMERSON

This reissue of a Caedmon recording of Emerson's poems, read by poet Archibald MacLeish, is a rare treasure. An interesting predecessor to Whitman's LEAVES OF GRASS, it may also make an enlightening companion to Thoreau's WALDEN, as Emerson owned acreage at Walden Pond, and its natural setting may have inspired some of his verse. The title of this production is somewhat misleading; Emerson was known as much for his essays as his poetry, and arguably the former are more crucial to understanding his contribution to American letters. Listeners should be aware that the dynamic range of this analog recording is limited. Also, MacLeish brings erudition but little resonance to his reading, so be prepared to turn up the volume. J.L.B. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2009]