The Circus, and Other Essays and Fugitive Pieces

A lively mix of ten essays and a handful of shorter pieces offers a glimpse into the mind of a poet who spent his early years juggling newspaper deadlines, literary clubs, and spirited conversations about art. The writing is warm and conversational, revealing Kilmer’s knack for turning everyday observations—like a bustling circus or a city’s daily rhythm—into thoughtful, often witty commentary. Listeners will hear the same humor and earnest curiosity that made his poems popular, now channeled into prose that feels both accessible and reflective.

The collection wanders through topics such as the fate of poets, the meaning of symbols, and playful anecdotes about a “Great Nickel Adventure” and a wandering bear. Interspersed are short, incisive essays on figures like Thomas Hardy and Gerard Hopkins, giving a taste of Kilmer’s literary criticism without heavy academic jargon. The result is a charming, snapshot‑like portrait of an early‑20th‑century writer whose voice remains engaging and surprisingly modern.