Standing by Words

Dust Jacket Blemishes -- Minimal shelf rubs on panel surfaces. The edges of the flaps are partially and lightly toned, caused by light exposure during prolonged shelf storage. The DJ is otherwise pristine. Flaps are not clipped and the ISBN is undisturbed, this is not a resale book. If requested by purchaser, a complimentary protective Mylar cover will be expertly applied to the DJ so that the book can be handled confidently by the new owner.

Book Blemishes -- Original owner's bookplate on the title page, p. 99, and last free endpaper (photo). Light uniform page toning better than could be expected for a book that is over 4 decades old. Book is tight, clean, and firm. No marks or entries

Review by Christian Science Monitor (March, 1984)

In his new collection of essays, we find Berry adamant, didactic, and unabashedly partisan. The purpose of his assault is to resurrect the essential values of clarity, responsibility, and commitment to the living tradition of poetry. As the argument progresses, his rhetoric rises to a near-religious fervor that is hardly orthodox for literary criticism. And the result is nothing short of splendid. Wendell Berry is a poet, essayist, novelist, and Kentucky farmer. It is at the confluence of his two major concerns - care for language and care for the land - that ''Standing by Words'' has it source.

In six essays with interlocking subjects, Mr. Berry explores the correspondence between the breakdown of our language and the isolation of individuals from their communities. One might be put off by the intensity of his style if it were not so immediately apparent that his debate is not that of an intellect dueling with opposing opinions but that of an individual working to prevent the destruction of his culture.