The Little Book of Modern Verse: A Selection from the Work of Contemporaneous American Poets

"The Little Book of Modern Verse" by Jessie Belle Rittenhouse is a collection of contemporary American poetry, edited in the early 20th century. This anthology captures the spirit of its time by showcasing the works of various poets who were active during the period, reflecting their interpretations of life and the beauty they discovered in it. Rittenhouse aims to provide a glimpse into the evolving landscape of American poetry, focusing on voices that embody the twentieth-century sensibilities. At the start of the book, Rittenhouse offers a foreword explaining her motivation for curating this particular selection of poems. She emphasizes that the collection is not an exhaustive anthology but rather an intimate reflection of the contemporary poets and their contributions, highlighting the importance of thematic unity among the chosen works. The opening remarks set the stage for the anthology, illustrating Rittenhouse's intent to present a vibrant picture of modern American poetry, guiding readers through a series of expressive pieces that collectively echo the emotional and aesthetic currents of the time.