Julia Lin traces the development of Chinese poetry in the 20th century, beginning with a description of the elements of traditional Chinese verse which, despite the poets' resolve to break with the past, remained an integral part of the modern poetry. Within the framework of three chronological divisions (1917-1937, 1937-1949, after 1949), poets are placed in groups defined by a commonality of purpose, technique and style. The author discusses the individual poets who were important to creating this new medium, describing each one's techniques and style, major themes, faults and virtues, and significant contributions. Her remarks are illustrated with her original translations from the Chinese works.