First published in 1943, E. K. Brown's On Canadian Poetry is a landmark critical essay that single-handedly established the modern context for studying 19th- and 20th-century Canadian poetry. Winning the Governor General's Literary Award for Non-Fiction, this profound and highly influential volume challenged the old literary assumptions of the era and provided a distinct national voice.

Through sharp analysis and rich cultural insight, Brown explores the unique difficulties faced by Canadian writers of the time and boldly re-evaluates the nation's leading poetic voices. By elevating the works of Archibald Lampman, Duncan Campbell Scott, and E. J. Pratt as the true masters of Canadian verse, Brown provided a new vision that would guide North American literary criticism for decades to come. An essential and illuminating read for anyone passionate about the history and soul of Canadian literature!