First published in 1987, this book is written for those who are encountering Wordsworth for the first time and for those familiar with his works that are at a loss to understand his reputation or why his work has impressed them. The strength of the author's approach is that it unravels the poet's true meaning and the process by which he all too frequently lost the voice of inspiration -- working and reshaping his poems until the original freshness disappeared. It concentrates on helping the reader appreciate Wordsworth's distinctive and daring way with words and poetic structure. By showing Wordsworth's failures, the author demonstrates by contrast the achievements of his greatest works.