Manuel Machado

Book excerpt: A biographical and critical study of the Spanish poet Manuel Machado (1874-1947), who was highly thought of in his lifetime but who, since his death, declined in popularity. His brother, Antonio, whom he once overshadowed, became more widely read. The first half of the book is biographical, setting Machado against the general literary background in Spain, and estimating his debt to French influence. Dr Brotherston deals in some detail with the Modernista movement, so that the study is almost an account of Spanish literary life of the time. The second half of the book is critical; Dr Brotherston wishes to show the fine quality of certain poems, and to affirm Machado's real importance and distinction. The generous bibliography will be useful to readers closely concerned with Machado and his period.