The light of evening

Jack Foley's autobiography provides an insightful look into his life as a poet and public intellectual, beginning with his New Jersey roots in 1940. He reflects on his dedication to poetry amidst its declining status, showcasing his unique style through experimental and traditional works, as well as notable "choruses" performed with his late wife. His experiences at Cornell and participation in the Free Speech Movement in Berkeley shaped his artistic journey. At eighty, Foley's narrative celebrates his contrarian approach and enduring commitment to poetry outside academic confines.