Browse Items (206 total)

Various drafts of "Days of 1994," the fifth in James Merrill's "Days of" series, completing his homage to Greek poet Constantine P. Cavafy. "Days of 1994" revolves around approaching death and what he will leave behind. Included here are five of a…

James Merrill's poem "Death Masks" from an issue of the Lawrenceville publication The Lit. The poem is a dramatic monologue spoken by a man who sells death masks made from the faces of artists.

A three-page draft of an unfinished, untitled poem from winter 1992 addressing Elizabeth Bishop. It is an "uncharacteristically awkward" but powerful poem about "raw life" prevailing over "graceful art."

This typescript draft page (one among 265 draft pages) centers on James Merrill comforting Psyche (and himself) over her (and his) realization of the limitations of love and self-knowledge. "From the Cupola" was published inNights and Days.See also…

This photo album, entitled "Happy Days at Stonington," includes snapshots taken around James Merrill and David Jackson's home at 107 Water Street, along with colorful commentary.

"Honorary Degree Citations" in the Amherst Alumni News. James Merrill's honorary degree from Amherst was the third for the Merrill family (Charles had received two). Amherst asked James Merrill about collecting his literary papers, which were already…

Program for "James Merrill & Mona Van Duyn" sponsored by The Poetry Center of the 92nd Street Y, October 3, 1983.

"James Merrill at Home: An Interview" by Ross Labrie from the Arizona Quarterly, Volume 38, Number 1 (Spring 1982).

Advertisement for "James Merrill, Poet, Will Read His Poetry in Boll Theatre" sponsored by the University of Dayton, November 7, 1984.

Advertisement for “James Merrill: A Life in Writing” sponsored by Washington University Libraries, November 18-19, 1994. In commemoration of the Modern Literature Collection’s 30th anniversary.