“American poetry, plain as the prairies, level as the quiet sea.”

Expresses Masters's preference for clarity, simplicity and an unmistakably American poetic voice · Critical writing on American poetry

• Poetry
• Simplicity
• Style

“The greatest poetry is that which founds itself upon the truth which is the beautiful, and the beautiful which is the truth.”

Sets truth and beauty at the centre of his conception of great poetry · Across Spoon River

• Beauty
• Poetry
• Truth

“Yet you know that it was you who pressed upon my attention in June, 1909, the Greek Anthology.”

Acknowledging the classical work that helped inspire his distinctive poetic form · Dedication and prefatory note (1918)

• Art
• Memory
• Poetry